CHOHJYU (handcrafted Matcha Bowl)

diameter: 4.52inch (11.5cm), height: 3.15inch (8.0cm), standard Matcha bowl size
Traditional Kyo-Yaki (Kyoto Style)
Made by Rakunyu Yoshimura at Rakunyu Kiln

This traditional Raku-yaki Matcha bowl features auspicious motifs and an original Japanese landscape. Three auspicious motifs are elegantly expressed on the surface of this Matcha bowl. The texture of this Matcha bowl and its form add a high level of elegance.

CHOHJYU means longevity in Japanese. Three elegant and delicate auspicious motifs: TSURU KANE crane and tortoise, and SHOH CHIKU BAI pine, bamboo, and plum, along with the background, which is KOHAKU red and white. The colors red and white are a traditional auspicious combination in Japan known as KOHAKU.

First, the two glazes of white (transparent) and red color are applied differently. The borderline between both colors is quite delicately and beautifully finished. It requires much effort and technical expertise. Second, the crane is drawn on the red colored surface, and the tortoise is drawn on the white colored surface. Third, the pine, bamboo, and plum are charmingly arranged. They are all drawn carefully and elegantly. Gold color pigment is used for some parts, which moderately adds a celebratory and luxurious atmosphere.

Raku-yaki is a very unique ceramics technique that was developed only for Matcha bowls in Kyoto about 400 years ago. Raku-yaki is highly desirable and sought after by people who study the tea ceremony.

The most unique feature of Raku-yaki is that it feels very soft and warm to the touch by hands or mouth. Though Raku-yaki is thick, it is very light, and given thick coats of glaze. This helps to give Raku-yaki its soft and warm material feel. The shape from the bottom to the side and top reminds you of the artisan's deep consideration for this bowl to comfortably fit your hands and mouth.

Raku-yaki has a water-absorbing property. If used for a long time, the surface aesthetic property changes a little. It is also a feature of using Raku-yaki that the atmosphere becomes more WABI SABI. WABI SABI is a Japanese aesthetic and spiritual ideal that implies authentic simplicity and imperfect beauty.

Holding this with both hands, you will certainly feel a sense of calm, due to the unique gentle texture of Raku-yaki and the elegant auspicious motifs.

Specially packaged in a wooden box.

Lead-free. Made in Japan.