Cats in Japanese craft
Cats have been a favourite subject of Japanese potters and painters for generations — from the beckoning maneki-neko to the quiet, sunlit cats found across hand-painted ceramics. This collection gathers our cat pieces in one place: mugs, teacups, chopsticks, wind chimes and boxed gift sets, all sourced directly from Japanese makers.
Two traditions run through the range. Kutani ware is hand-painted in bold overglaze colour, which is why the cats on our Atelier Yu pieces have such distinct character — no two are quite identical. Mino ware is built for daily use: sturdy, well-glazed, and priced for everyday.
Maneki Neko
The beckoning cat, thought to invite prosperity. A raised left paw draws customers; a raised right paw draws money.
Lucky Cat & Daruma
Paired with the daruma doll, which represents perseverance — knocked over, it always rights itself. A meaningful gift for someone starting something new.
Cats in a Sunny Spot
Atelier Yu's hand-painted Kutani scene of cats dozing in the light. Our most popular cat design.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes — every piece is imported directly from Japanese kilns and suppliers.
The Lucky Cat Daruma gift set and the cat tea and chopstick set. Both arrive presentation-boxed and pair a mug with something extra.
Kutani ware is painted by hand. Variation in line and expression is a mark of the technique, not a flaw.
Frequently, though runs from individual kilns are limited. Sold-out pieces are worth checking back on.
Hand wash hand-painted Kutani pieces. Mino ware is generally dishwasher and microwave safe — check the individual product page.