On the bright porcelain surface, the aged plumb blossom is in full bloom. You can feel the energy of how the trunk and branches bend. The flowers on the branches and the new growth burst forth in the scene with a bold but quiet elegance. This natural beauty is captured so well by the thinnest lines, tiniest dabs, and the full range of values within the design. These details were painstakingly repeated on each piece in the set, yet those same elements evoke a sense of effortlessness. While the Ume tree is replicated across the cups, each has a slightly different touch reflecting the artisans' own emotions when he was painting that particular piece. That is the key to knowing that these were the creations of a real master of their art! The painted details are contrasted with the pure white of the opposite side of the cup, void of decoration.

When you pick one up, it is feather-light, and exceptionally thin. You hold it in your hands, another element of the masterful craftsmanship it took to make such an airy set. Those contradictions of the tree's energy and incredible effort with a feeling of ease make this set so delightful.

Welcome your guests with a taste of chilled green tea in the summer with this teacup set. They will bring about a graceful lightness and refreshing atmosphere.