Oak Ash Glazed Tenmoku-gata Chawan

This small and classy chawan (matcha bowl) is thrown in a classic Tenmoku-gata shape from Asahiyaki’s signature hanshi (燔師) clay, dug from Shirakawa and Oriiyama in and around Uji. The bowl is draped in an oak ash glaze which exhibits subtle shifts in its cool greenish-grey hue along with prominent crazing which will develop further with use. The green along with the black spots come from iron present in the glaze. These natural imperfections and a touch of softness to the formality and stateliness that is typically associated with the tenmoku shape. Adding this rustic touch to a classically elegant form expresses Asahiyaki's signature kirei-sabi aesthetic.

Before using it for the first time, it is recommended to soak the piece in water for 10 minutes. This will dislodge any dust from the clay as well as slow down the natural development of patina in the glaze.

This piece was made by the skilled craftsmen at the Asahiyaki studio and wood-fired in their climbing kiln.