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Matcha bowls enrich your daily tea ceremony time.
The beautiful painting and soft texture that feels comfortable in the hand have a soothing effect on the user.
However, to enjoy its charm for a long time, proper care and handling are essential.
In this article, we will clearly explain the basics of caring for matcha bowls, as well as the key points to consider when handling each material and decoration.
1. How to care for your matcha bowl | Basic steps
Most matcha bowls are made of pottery, with porcelain being the minority. Matcha bowls, particularly those made of Raku ware, have a unique earthen texture and softness, and are treasured as vessels that strongly reflect the spirituality of the tea ceremony.
Before use: Sealing and boiling
Ceramic matcha bowls are highly absorbent, and if used as is, they can cause tea stains and stains. Before using, soak them in lukewarm water for a few hours to seal the pores and prevent stains from seeping in. Before using, lightly boil the bowl in boiling water to prevent cracking.
Raku ware is fired at low temperatures, making it soft and vulnerable to thermal shock, so it is important to season it in lukewarm water.
After use: Wash gently by hand
After use, gently wash with lukewarm water and remove dirt with a soft cloth or sponge. Use only the minimum amount of mild detergent necessary. Particular care is required for vessels with gold leaf or overglaze painting.
Drying and storage
After use, rinse lightly with hot water to speed up drying and prevent mold. After washing, do not wipe with a cloth, but dry in the shade with the elevated surface facing up. Allow to dry thoroughly for 5 to 7 days, then store in a container with good ventilation, such as a paulownia box. We recommend storing in a cloth, as wrapping in non-breathable cushioning material such as urethane will trap moisture.
| material | characteristics | Care tips |
|---|---|---|
| Pottery (earthenware) | Highly absorbent and soft, used for many matcha bowls, including Ninseiji, Raku ware, Karatsu ware, and Hagi ware | Boiling is required / Seals the skin / Hand wash and dry in shade |
| Porcelain (stoneware) | Almost no water absorption, hard and durable | Detergent and dishwasher safe (be careful with decorations) / No rapid cooling |
2. Points to note for each decoration and glaze
Decoration
Overglaze painting (painting on top of the glaze)
This is a method of painting over the glaze after the final firing.
Representative examples include overglaze painting on the Ninsei ground base that is common in Kyo-yaki and Kiyomizu-yaki ware, and are characterized by their vibrant colors and gorgeous decorations such as gold leaf.
It is sensitive to friction and heat, so avoid putting it in the dishwasher or microwave. It is used for many matcha bowls, so it is best to wash it carefully by hand and store it separately.
Underglaze painting (coloring under the glaze)
It is decorated by painting, applying glaze and then firing it again before final firing.
When it comes to matcha bowls, representative examples include Kyoto ware with blue and white painting and Karatsu ware with painted Karatsu.
The painting itself will not easily peel off as it is coated with glaze on top.
It is durable and suitable for everyday use. It can be washed just like regular ceramic.
Kochi
This matcha bowl is characterized by its three-dimensional frame (itchin) and vivid colors.
It is sensitive to acids and shocks, so wash it gently by hand and be careful of temperature changes.
glaze
Ninseiji
Also known as Awatade, it is characterized by its soft milky white color.
This matcha bowl is representative of Kyoto ware, with a warmth characteristic of pottery and striking colored and gold paintings.
The white, soft base has crazing and tea stains easily seep in. It is important to boil it in water and wash and dry it promptly.
Raku ware
These hand-kneaded matcha bowls are representative of Japan and come in a variety of colors including red Raku, black Raku, and brown.
It is made by rapid heating and cooling, giving it an attractive luster and earthy texture.
Because it is soft and easily broken, it is best to hand wash it and air dry it.
natural glaze
This matcha bowl has a wabi-sabi feel, which is common in Shigaraki ware and Hagi ware.
When items are fired in a climbing kiln, ash from the wood used as fuel naturally falls on them during the firing process, creating an ash glaze that allows you to enjoy the beautiful scenery.
Despite its ceramic appearance, it is fired at high temperatures and is therefore sturdy, but care must be taken as the unglazed parts are prone to absorbing water.
Tenmoku glaze
This is a historic matcha bowl that was brought over from China at the same time as the matcha culture.
Iron-based glazes in black and amber. The style varies greatly depending on the maker, from glossy jet black to beautiful mottled patterns that develop in the kiln.
3. Treat your tableware properly to ensure it lasts a long time
A matcha bowl is not just a tool, but something that brings peace of mind every time you use it and adds color to your daily life.
By understanding the characteristics of the materials and decorations and caring for them appropriately, you can enjoy their beauty and texture for a long time.
Let's make it a habit to handle tableware correctly and enjoy quality time with it.
