Shōchikubai Chawan

This classy Kiyomizu-yaki chawan (matcha bowl) is made in the classic wan-nari shape and features an ivory glaze decorated with a shōchikubai (松竹梅 - pine, bamboo, plum) motif, with carefully hand-painted and gilded pine tree, plum branch, and bamboo stalk.

Also known as The Three Friends of Winter, shōchikubai is traditional East Asian art motif that has its origins in Tang Dynasty Chinese art. Each of the three plants is known for not withering throughout the winter months, thus representing resilience. In Japan, this motif is also heavily associated with New Year's.

The inside is left clear, allowing the vibrant colour of matcha to shine against the warm white of the glaze.

This chawan was made by Eyuki Kiln (恵雪窯).