This time, we focus on the "Cup Shaped Bonsai Pot with High Feet" by Echizen-Bunzan.
For many, the shape might be unfamiliar. Below, we’ll write three key points:
1) What this shape represents
2) Why the potter, Bunzan made pots with this design
3) 5 reasons Why we recommend them
1) What this shape represents
This shape is inspired by a type of cup called a "Bajouhai" (馬上杯). Long ago, these cups were used by horseback riders. The design traveled through Central Asia, Mongolia, and China before making its way to Japan. The cup shape with high feet also became established as a tea bowl design in the tea ceremony. In the world of Japanese ceramics, this shape holds a certain traditional significance.
2) Why the potter, Echizen-Bunzan made pots with this design
Echizen-Bunzan is an innovator who continuously challenges the norms of bonsai pots. Design is one of those challenges. Through his bonsai pots, he pursues new styles of bonsai. The result of this pursuit is the Bajouhai-shaped bonsai pot. For those accustomed to traditional bonsai pots, this shape may feel unfamiliar. However, innovative Japanese bonsai enthusiasts who resonate with this artist's vision have planted bonsai in these Bajouhai-style pots, creating stunning works of art.3) 5 reasons Why we recommend them
Echizen-Bunzan did not make the Bajouhai-style pot merely for the sake of novelty. The shape is carefully molded with a strong sense of harmony with the plant, and the glaze colors are chosen accordingly. Moreover, the entire process is done by hand—no pottery wheels or molds are used. Our shop owner, Yuki has also used Echizen-Bunzan’s pots for bonsai for many years and has found the following:
•Many plant looks stylish in these pots. Tall plants, in particular, are easy to pair with this pot, and the balance is easy to achieve.
•Even plants that are not traditionally used for bonsai, like those sold in general gardening stores, look attractive in this pot.
•The high feet draw the viewer’s focus to the plant.
•The unique shape of the pot leaves a lasting impression and is easy to display at exhibitions.
•It is user-friendly for bonsai beginners and offers a fun challenge for experienced enthusiasts.
Please take a look at the examples below of how this pot has been used.
This is a bonsai that we have been displaying in our shop since 2024. A tall red weeping maple is just placed on the pot.
This is a gorgeous Satsuki azalea bonsai and pot. It’s the work of Bonsai master, Katsuhiro Kumaki
