Viridian Twilight Urushi Master Tasting Cup 70ml

The Viridian Twilight Urushi Master Tasting Cup 70ml

The Viridian Twilight Urushi Master Tasting Cup 70ml is a deeply atmospheric host cup created for focused Gongfu Cha appreciation. Rooted in Chinese tradition of Da Qi (大漆), this handcrafted vessel blends grass green, lake blue, cream, beige, bold orange, and striking black brushstrokes into a richly layered composition reminiscent of a lush garden blooming at dusk.

Dynamic and expressive, the Urushi surface evokes sunset reflections moving across a tranquil lake. As the cup is lifted toward the lips, the synergy of its living lacquered texture, fine Jingdezhen porcelain form, and shifting color tones creates a highly intimate connection between vessel, tea, and hand.

A Twilight Garden in Bloom

The Viridian Twilight finish is alive with movement, contrast, and depth. Bright mineral pigments are suspended in pure, natural tree sap, meeting darker brushstrokes to create the impression of flowering plants, evening shadows, and shifting water reflections.

The result is a master cup that feels both vivid and meditative—an artisan object that brings color, warmth, and quiet drama to the gongfu tea table.

The Da Qi Urushi Process: Grown, Not Made

True Urushi (known as Da Qi in China) is not a synthetic paint, but the natural, harvested sap of the Toxicodendron vernicifluum tree. Applying this material using the traditional Zhangxiu technique is a painstaking process of time and atmospheric mastery.

Because Urushi does not "dry" but rather hardens through a chemical reaction requiring high humidity and precise temperatures, each individual layer must cure for up to 24 hours in a specialized humidity chamber before the next can be applied. This weeks-long process yields a surface of unmatched depth and tactile warmth.

"Not painted. Not coated. Cultivated — layer by vivid layer, through weeks of careful hands and patient curing."

The Master’s Vessel (Zhurenbei)

In traditional Gongfu tea practice, the master tasting cup—or Zhurenbei—is more than a drinking vessel. It is a personal statement reserved strictly for the host, chosen for its character, handling, and emotional resonance. It reflects the host's personality and their distinct tea journey.

At 70ml, this Zhurenbei offers a generous tasting volume while preserving the focus and intimacy of traditional tea appreciation. The thin Jingdezhen porcelain body gives the cup a refined presence, while the gently flared rim rests comfortably against the lip to support aroma, texture, and smooth delivery.

One Object, One Nature

Following the philosophy of Wu Wo He Yi (Unity of Object and Self), this master cup is designed to evolve alongside its owner. Urushi is a "living" material. Over years of use, the warmth of the tea and the natural oils from your hands will encourage the Zhangxiu lacquer to develop greater translucency.

As the patina matures, the grass greens and lake blues will become more luminous, the bold oranges will warm, and the deep black brushstrokes will gain a subtle, glossy depth. Rather than remaining static, the cup records the history of your tea practice, transforming into a deeply personal heirloom shaped by time and ritual.

Specifications

• Product: Viridian Twilight Urushi Master Tasting Cup
• Dimension: 51H × 67W mm / 2.01H × 2.64W inch
• Volume: 70ml / 2.37oz
• Material: Fine Jingdezhen porcelain with natural Zhangxiu Da Qi Urushi lacquer
• Type: Gongfu master tasting cup / Zhurenbei / host cup
• Use: Gongfu tea hosting, tea appreciation, solo brewing, and mindful tea rituals
• Finish: Viridian Twilight Urushi colorway with grass green, lake blue, bold orange, and striking black tones
• Care: Hand wash recommended. Avoid abrasive cleaners, prolonged soaking, and extreme temperature changes.
• Uniqueness: Every piece is individually handcrafted and finished; no two are exactly identical. The living lacquer surface will gradually evolve and develop character through use.