Matcha Bowl - Cherry Blossoms in Full Bloom by Kakozan Kiln

Matcha Bowl with Seasonal Flowers and Plants

This matcha bowl is from the Kasan Kiln, a fourth-generation family business located in Kyoto's Gojo-zaka district. Using seasonal flowers and plants that adorn Japan's four seasons as motifs, the beautiful seasonal scenery is expressed within the vessel. Amidst the vivid colors, one can feel the natural, simple beauty, making it a bowl that adds seasonal charm not only to tea ceremonies but also to daily tea breaks.

Elegant Colors Painted with Traditional Japanese Pigments

At Kasan Kiln, each piece is hand-painted, valuing traditional Japanese pigments. A significant feature is the slight unevenness and three-dimensionality created by layering colors with delicate brushwork and carefully building up the pigment.

The soft hues, intricate depictions, and expressive brushstrokes unique to hand-painting harmonize with the warm texture of the pottery and the vibrant painting. This allows for a rich expression to be enjoyed depending on the viewing angle and how the light hits it.

Kasan Kiln's Vessels, Inheriting the Style of Kenzan

The artistic style of Kasan Kiln inherits the aesthetic sensibility of Ogata Kenzan, a renowned potter from the Edo period. Kenzan was a master who created numerous free and elegant works using familiar natural motifs such as flowers and plants, combining the simple texture of pottery with painterly decoration.

Kasan Kiln's vessels, while utilizing the warm textures unique to earthenware, freely depict the nature of the four seasons. Inheriting the aesthetic sensibilities of Kyo-yaki, which traces back to Kenzan, these matcha bowls are created to be vibrant and approachable, enjoyable in modern life.