[清本源 x Gohobi Gallery] Inner-Molded Fish, Algae, and Lotus Seed · Green Glaze Lidded ContaineR

1. Inspiration: Drawing from and Elevating Traditional Culture

The concept for this piece began in the summer a year ago, with vivid visions of Chinese cultural heritage surfacing in our minds. The lotus seed, a deeply symbolic motif in Chinese tradition, represents purity, elegance, and blessings of fertility and abundance. It is a recurring image in poetry, painting, and sculpture.

Similarly, the fish-and-algae motif has a long history in ceramic art: the word for fish (“鱼”) is a homonym of “abundance” (“余”), while algae symbolizes vitality. By combining these motifs, we pay homage to traditional symbolism while aiming to create an object that carries both cultural depth and modern aesthetic appeal.

2. Form: Harmonizing Shape and Spirit

(1) Lotus Seed Shape
We closely studied the natural structure of lotus seeds— from their rounded bodies to the gentle rise of the top—to faithfully capture their essence. The lid echoes the seed’s crown with a subtle raised surface and textured detail, while the container body mimics the full, smooth curves of the seed. Through extensive prototyping and ergonomic testing, we finalized a form that balances beauty with comfortable handling.

(2) Overall Proportions
The dimensions were fine-tuned to ensure visual harmony and practical use—whether as a tabletop feature or decorative piece. Its height-to-diameter ratio was carefully calculated to project both delicacy and presence, allowing it to stand alone or complement other objects effortlessly.

3. Craftsmanship: Honoring Tradition with Innovation

(1) Green Glaze Firing
The lustrous celadon green glaze is a highlight of this piece. Drawing on historical green-glaze recipes and modern materials science, we formulated the glaze using natural mineral sources. After countless tests, we achieved the ideal color depth, translucency, and gloss. Firing was precisely controlled, from alternating reduction and oxidation atmospheres to fine-tuning heating and cooling curves, resulting in a jade-like finish rich in texture and tone.

(2) Inner-Mold Impressions
The inner fish-and-algae pattern is crafted through traditional mold-carving. Skilled artisans etched each fish scale and strand of aquatic grass by hand onto the mold with precision. Multiple test runs ensured crisp, dynamic impressions. The molding process required exact control of clay moisture, pressing force, and timing to achieve seamless integration between design and form.

4. Functionality: Balancing Aesthetic and Utility from an Original Perspective

Originality was at the heart of the design process, especially in functional considerations.

From the start, we moved beyond conventional container roles. This piece was envisioned as a versatile object adaptable to various settings:

• A refined holder for tea treats, enhancing afternoon tea moments

• A cozy home for cherished jewelry

• An elegant organizer for small items in daily life

Its unique shape and presence serve each purpose with grace.

In designing the internal dimensions, we abandoned standard sizing in favor of data-driven, real-life measurements. We observed user habits and item dimensions across demographics, adjusting repeatedly to create a container that's easy to access while offering a refined spatial aesthetic—avoiding both crowding and emptiness.

The lid and base fit seamlessly thanks to a custom-developed precision closure system. It ensures dust protection and smooth usability, offering a satisfying tactile experience with each opening.

Throughout the process, our commitment to aesthetic excellence guided every decision. From the distinct silhouette to the smallest crafted details, this piece embodies both functional innovation and artistic flair. Whether open or closed, it reveals an unmistakable charm—adding a poetic, original presence to any living space.

Dimensions: Diameter 17 cm, Height 8.5 cm

The price listed is for one bowl and one plate. 

Our esteemed customers are welcome to request a private viewing of the video for a more in-depth look into our exquisite tea set

Each piece is distinct and carefully crafted. As these are hand-crafted, slight variations may exist between pieces.

We aim to ship your order in reused/ recycled packaging where possible.