What can you tell me about these cups?

[Mark-S]

I have no clue about Japanese clay, so I hope someone can answer me this.

Last week, I bought 4 simple cups for little money. They have got a stamp on the bottom: Nippon (Japan) Tokusei (special made). The stamp should indicate that these cups were made during the Showa reign (1926-1988). I have found one source saying that this particular seal was used before WWII (because it was written right to left) and one source that says that they could also been made after WWII. Who is right about it? And how was the quality of the Japanese clay back than? I am trying to learn more about Japanese teaware.

[Bok]

Looks like Tokoname Shudei clay to me. Is it slightly satiny, a bit "wet" to the touch?

[Mark-S]

Looks like Tokoname Shudei clay to me. Is it slightly satiny, a bit "wet" to the touch?

Yes, that's a perfect characterization of the clay. From a quick Google search I think that Tokoname Shudei clay is very good, right? That would be nice...

[Bok]

Looks like Tokoname Shudei clay to me. Is it slightly satiny, a bit "wet" to the touch?

Yes, that's a perfect characterization of the clay. From a quick Google search I think that Tokoname Shudei clay is very good, right? That would be nice...

Only usage can tell you how good it is with your teas and according to your taste
But globally, yes, not a bad clay.

[Mark-S]

@Bok
Could I use them with different teas without spoiling the taste? I have read that Zhuni is more like porcelain.

[Bok]

Bok
Could I use them with different teas without spoiling the taste? I have read that Zhuni is more like porcelain.

Zhuni more so, but Shudei is different. Closer to Hongni, so some absorbtion of flavour over time might occur. And I also would not recommend the use of detergent for these either. Also not the best cups to share with guests as to aformentioned cleaning issues.

[Mark-S]

All right, thanks for your help. Normally, I like porcelain cups better. I am eager to see if they can change my mind.

[pedant]

they look nice. try using them!

see if you like the size, volume, shape, etc.

also, try with one of your normal cups (ideally a porcelain one) side by side. pour half into each cup.
maybe test this with a few kinds of tea.

i wouldn't worry about contaminating the cups with different kinds of tea, especially from just a few sessions.

[Mark-S]

@pedant
Thanks, I have got four of these cups, so I will use one cup for each type of tea (green, black, oolong, white) for a couple of weeks. Then I will compare the cups to my porcelain cups from Auratic. If there is an impact on the tea's taste I hope it is small.

I have got a few F1 Yixing cups, but they are too small for me. These cups have a perfect size I think.