Why This Mug Needs Special Care
The Mouth of the Serpent tiki mug is a handmade ceramic piece from Mondo's Designer Series, sculpted by Tufan Sezer with artwork by Urban Aztec (Jesse Hernandez). Its deep crimson glaze and limited run of 490 pieces make it a collectible that deserves more than a quick rinse.
Because each mug is handcrafted, slight variations in glaze and surface are part of the design. That also means the finish is more delicate than mass-produced drinkware. The right care routine keeps the skull-and-serpent detail crisp and the glaze intact for years.
How to Clean Your Mouth of the Serpent Mug
Hand washing is the only safe method for this ceramic tiki mug. Dishwashers can dull the glaze and knock the mug against other items, especially given its sculpted shape.
- 1. Rinse immediately after use: Empty the mug and rinse with warm water. Letting sticky cocktail residue dry inside makes cleaning harder and can leave odors.
- 2. Wash with mild soap and a soft sponge: Use a gentle dish soap and a non-abrasive sponge or cloth. Avoid scrub pads, steel wool, or any cleaner with bleach or citrus solvents. Pay extra attention to the recessed areas around the serpent's mouth and skull.
- 3. Dry by hand with a lint-free cloth: Air drying can leave water spots on the glossy crimson glaze. A soft towel also lets you check that no moisture is trapped in the mug's interior crevices.
Display Placement That Protects the Glaze
This mug holds 24 oz, so it has some heft. Place it on a stable shelf away from edges where it could be knocked off. Direct sunlight can fade the deep red glaze over time, so choose a spot with indirect light.
If you're storing the mug for long periods, wrap it in acid-free tissue paper and keep it in a box with padding. Stacking other items on top of it risks chipping the raised serpent head.
What Makes This Mug Unique
- Mouth of the Serpent Designer Series Tiki Mug (Emperor's Blood): Designed by Urban Aztec (Jesse Hernandez) and sculpted by Tufan Sezer. The design depicts Quetzalcoatl opening his mouth to reveal the skull of Mictlantehcuhtli, the Aztec god of the dead. The detailed sculpting means some areas are more fragile than a standard mug. Knowing where the raised and recessed parts are helps you clean and handle it without accidental damage.
Mouth of the Serpent Designer Series Tiki Mug (Emperor's Blood) - Mouth of the Serpent Designer Series Tiki Mug (Emperor's Blood): Limited to 490 pieces with a deep crimson glaze. Each mug is handmade, so slight variations from images shown may occur. The limited run and handcrafted nature mean replacement isn't easy. Taking extra care with cleaning and display protects an item that can't simply be reordered.
What to Avoid
Don't microwave this mug. The metallic elements in some ceramic glazes can heat unevenly or cause cracking. Also avoid freezing it or pouring boiling liquid into it, as rapid temperature changes can stress the ceramic body.
If you use the mug for cocktails, rinse it soon after. Acidic ingredients like citrus juice can etch the glaze if left to sit overnight. A quick rinse keeps the surface glossy and the design readable.
