Angel of the Depths is an original sculptural work designed by Jeff Granito—a skeletal angelfish rendered in ceramic, layered with movement, texture, and shadow.
The idea began nearly two years ago as a study in structure: how to translate the delicate framework of a fish’s anatomy into something both dramatic and functional. Rather than depict a living creature, Jeff chose to emphasize the skeletal form—exposed ribs, elongated fins, and carved negative space—allowing light and glaze to define the contours. The result is a piece that feels both architectural and organic, intricate yet fluid from every angle.
This design evolved slowly. Multiple sculpt iterations were refined to balance visual complexity with structural integrity. The sweeping dorsal fin, ribbed body, and dimensional facial structure required careful adjustment so the form would remain bold while still functioning comfortably as a vessel. Proportions were revisited, surfaces were sharpened or softened, and glaze tests were explored until the piece achieved the depth and contrast it demanded.
Each Angel of the Depths tiki mug is produced in-house at Laguna Studio, our ceramic studio in Laguna Beach, California. The work is carried out by our team, led by ChanTiki, using artist-made molds and traditional slipcasting techniques, followed by extensive hand-finishing. Every mug is cast, cleaned, fired, glazed, and refined by hand. While the form begins in a mold, the finishing stage is where each piece takes on its own character. Variations in glaze pooling, tonal shifts, and surface detail are a natural part of the process and ensure that no two are exactly alike.
This piece is produced as a Laguna Studio run in limited quantities. Due to the complexity of the sculpt and the labor involved in finishing, only a small number can be completed at a time, and we may limit or pause orders depending on how many are outstanding.
These mugs are made to order, but not a pre-order. Production is already underway, with batches currently progressing through the kiln. Finished pieces ship weekly as they complete their final firing, and orders are fulfilled in the order they are received.
Angel of the Depths reflects our commitment to original sculptural design—conceived by Jeff Granito, shaped through patience, and brought to life by hand at Laguna Studio.
