[清本源 x Gohobi Gallery] Melon-Green Glazed Cup with Inner-Impressed Moonlight Pattern

This melon-green glazed porcelain cup is a quiet study in colour, texture, and restrained craftsmanship, where monochrome beauty reveals depth through light and form.

The glaze known as melon green, also referred to historically as poured green glaze, takes its name from the fresh green tone of watermelon rind. Distinct from early Han dynasty green glazes, melon green is prized for its clarity and translucence, offering a bright yet refined visual character. Historically, this glaze saw its height during the Jiajing period of the Ming dynasty, before gradually falling out of production and later re-emerging in the late Kangxi era of the Qing dynasty.

Qing Ben Yuan’s interpretation of melon green departs from earlier low-temperature traditions. It is realised as a high-temperature coloured glaze, achieved through controlled reduction firing. The result is a green tone that is restrained rather than vivid, luminous yet calm, with a gentle depth that feels composed and modern. Under light, the glaze appears soft and glass-like, revealing subtle tonal shifts across the surface.

Beneath the glaze, a moonlight motif is formed through inner mould impressing. Rather than appearing as surface decoration, the pattern emerges faintly from within the porcelain body, where body and glaze interact to create a texture that appears and disappears with changing angles and light. This fusion of form and glaze embodies Qing Ben Yuan’s approach to monochrome porcelain, where decoration is suggested rather than declared, and beauty resides in quiet nuance.

The cup’s cylindrical form is compact and balanced, designed for comfortable handling and mindful use. Its simplicity allows the glaze and inner pattern to take precedence, making each tea session an exercise in slow observation and tactile appreciation.

Diameter: 6.7 cm
Height: 3.7 cm
Capacity: 80 ml

The listed price is for one cup. Each piece is individually handcrafted, and subtle variations in glaze tone, translucency, and inner impression are part of its unique character. Customers are welcome to request a private video viewing for a closer look. Orders are shipped using reused or recycled packaging wherever possible.

A monochrome tea cup of quiet depth—where high-temperature green glaze and inner-impressed form meet—revealing the understated elegance and enduring charm of Qing Ben Yuan’s single-colour aesthetic.