Tortoise + Mori Masahiro Ceramics
So many beautiful wares from Japan to enjoy on the Tortoise website where 'long and steady' is the motto. Tortoise is an online store that I recently discovered while searching for Mori Masahiro ceramics.
I was fortunate to discover his mori cups on clearance for only $2 each at a local Homegoods store recently. I didn't need more than one, I simply purchased it because I loved the smooth form, the simplicity of pure white and curves, and I needed a pencil cup. For a mere $2, it appeared to be the perfect budget solution. I guess the average shopper wasn't interested in these $2 finds, maybe because they weren't shaped like your typical drinking vessel. What they didn't realize, myself included, is that these cups were designed especially for the blind by Mori Masahiro. He created them back in 1969 to help blind people tactically distinguish one cup from another back. I was excited after I arrived at home to research my $2 find. It made this lonely little clearance item that no one else wanted so much more of a gem to me. I'm sure you've experienced this before yourself.
I hope you enjoy Masahiro and the many other clean modern designer wares on the Tortoise website. In addition to the Masahiro ceramics, I think you'll also enjoy the Tin Sake Set and the cherry veneer Mokusei Lamp.
To learn more about the husband and wife team behind the company, click here. Also something of interest: The Tortoise newsletter.
psst: If you're in Venice, California, you can visit their brick and mortar store (shown below) at 1208 Abbot Kinney Blvd from noon-6pm or by appointment. Please note, they are closed on Monday and Tuesday.
(images from tortoise)