Matcha Bowl - Polychrome Rimpa Style “Fujin (Wind God)” by Sensho

Fūjin Raijin Depicted by Traditional Craftsman Yoshihiro Yamaoka

This matcha bowl featuring the Fūjin Raijin motif was crafted by Yoshihiro Yamaoka, a traditional craftsman of Kyo ware and Kiyomizu ware.

The work expresses the Fūjin Raijin motif, a representative traditional theme 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, each depicting the “Wind God,” who races through the sky with a wind bag on his back, and the “Thunder God,” who creates thunder by beating a drum.

The Fūjin Raijin Motif, an Icon of Japanese Art

The Fūjin Raijin motif, depicting the Wind God who governs the wind and the Thunder God who governs thunder, is a representative traditional theme in Japanese art.

Among them, the National Treasure “Fūjin Raijin Folding Screen” by early Edo period artist Sōtatsu of the Tawara workshop is widely known. The dynamic figures of the deities depicted on a gold background are a masterpiece symbolizing the Rinpa school and have greatly influenced generations of artists.

The Wind and Thunder Gods, 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 Wind and Thunder Gods facing each other.

Master Craftsman Yoshihiro Yamaoka, a Master of Kyo and Kiyomizu Ware Decoration

Yoshihiro Yamaoka is a Kyo and Kiyomizu ware ceramicist 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.

Yoshihiro’s works are characterized by their highly artistic decoration, which makes use of the vivid colors and painterly expressions typical of Kyo and Kiyomizu ware. His designs skillfully incorporate traditional Japanese themes, and the motifs, meticulously rendered down to the finest details, embody the refined skill and aesthetic sensibility forged through many years of experience.

Yoshihiro treats each vessel as a canvas, expressing 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 Yoshihiro Yamaoka’s Fūjin Raijin motif catches the eye with its vivid colors and dynamic decoration.

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 decorative techniques over many years. We also recommend acquiring the Wind and Thunder Gods as a pair and enjoying them side by side.