Matcha Bowl - Polychrome Rimpa Style “Raijin (Thunder God)” by Sensho

Fujin and Raijin Depicted by Traditional Craftsman Zensho Yamaoka

This matcha bowl featuring Fujin and Raijin was crafted by Zensho Yamaoka, a traditional craftsman of Kyo ware and Kiyomizu ware.

The work expresses the "Fujin and Raijin" motif, one of the most iconic traditional themes in Japanese art, with vivid colors and dynamic brushwork. The powerful figures of the deities are depicted on the bowl, showcasing the splendor and artistry unique to Kyo and Kiyomizu ware.

We offer two types of matcha bowls: one depicting the "Fujin" (Wind God), who races through the sky with a wind bag on his back, and the other depicting the "Raijin" (Thunder God), who creates thunder by beating a drum.

Fujin and Raijin, an Iconic Motif in Japanese Art

Fujin and Raijin is a traditional motif in Japanese art depicting the Fujin, the deity of wind, and the Raijin, the deity of thunder.

Among them, the National Treasure "Fujin and Raijin Folding Screen" by early Edo period artist Sōtatsu of the Tawara family is widely known. The dynamic figures of the deities painted on a gold background have greatly influenced later generations of artists as a masterpiece symbolizing the Rinpa school.

The Fujin and Raijin, with their powerful yet humorous expressions, have long been beloved by the Japanese people.

This matcha bowl allows you to enjoy the rich expressions of Japanese art with your daily bowl of tea. When the two bowls are placed side by side, you can also enjoy the composition of the Fujin and Raijin facing each other.

Zensho Yamaoka, a Master of Kyo and Kiyomizu Ware Painting

Zensho Yamaoka is a Kyo and Kiyomizu ware potter born in Mie Prefecture in 1942. He trained under the first generation Zenpō, Zenjirō Ueyama, and became independent in 1969. In 2002, he was certified as a traditional craftsman of Kyo and Kiyomizu ware.

Zensho's works are characterized by their highly artistic painting, utilizing the vivid colors and pictorial expressions typical of Kyo and Kiyomizu ware. The designs, which skillfully incorporate traditional Japanese motifs and are meticulously rendered down to the finest details, embody the refined skill and aesthetic sense forged through many years of experience.

Treating the vessel as a canvas, Zensho expresses the world of traditional painting. Although they are practical tea utensils, his works can also be enjoyed as fine art.

Shop Owner's Comment

This matcha bowl featuring Fujin and Raijin by Zensho Yamaoka catches the eye with its vivid colors and dynamic brushwork.

The powerful composition based on a masterpiece of Japanese art harmonizes beautifully with the splendid expression characteristic of Kiyomizu ware.

This is a highly artistic bowl created by a master who has refined his painting techniques over many years. We recommend collecting both the Fujin and Raijin bowls and enjoying them side by side.