Koi Porcelain Mini Bowl

A small porcelain bowl, 7.8cm across and holding 60ml, with a koi fish painted inside so that the fish appears to swim when the bowl is filled. It is the kind of object that works on two levels: a proper little tea cup in the Chinese gongfu tradition, and a decorative dish for rings, cufflinks or paperclips when it is not in use.

Four painted designs are offered, each a different arrangement of fish and water. The porcelain is glazed smooth inside and out, and the small capacity is deliberate - this is a cup for a single concentrated mouthful of tea rather than a mug, which is exactly how it is used in the tradition it comes from. It sits comfortably in the palm.

A set of all four designs makes a good gift, or a single bowl can sit on a desk quietly holding small things that otherwise get lost. It is hand-painted, so slight variation between pieces is normal and not a fault. Wash by hand in warm water with mild detergent and dry immediately; it is not intended for a dishwasher or a microwave. Keep it away from the edge of a shelf, as porcelain this thin chips easily.

• Glazed porcelain, hand-painted interior; 7.8 x 7.8cm, 60ml capacity
• Four painted koi designs
• Suits gongfu-style tea, or use as a small trinket dish
• Hand wash in warm water; not for dishwasher or microwave use
• Hand-painted - slight variation between pieces is normal
• Thin porcelain - keep away from shelf edges