Matcha Bowl - “Cherry Blossoms at Night” by Kakozan Kiln

Matcha Bowls Depicting Seasonal Flowers

These matcha bowls are made by Kako-zan Kiln, a family pottery that has been in business for four generations in Gojo-zaka, Kyoto. Featuring motifs of flowers that color Japan's four seasons, they express beautiful seasonal scenery within the vessel. Amidst the vibrant colors, one can feel the simple beauty of nature, making these bowls perfect for tea ceremonies, or to add a touch of seasonal color to your daily cup of tea.

Elegant Colors Painted with Traditional Japanese Pigments

At Kako-zan Kiln, each piece is hand-painted with traditional Japanese pigments, valued for their time-honored quality. A notable feature is the subtle unevenness and three-dimensional effect created by layering colors with delicate brushstrokes and carefully applying the pigments.

The soft hues, intricate depictions, and expressive brushwork unique to hand-painting harmonize with the warm texture of the pottery and the vibrant designs. This creates a rich visual experience that changes with the viewing angle and lighting.

Kako-zan Kiln's Vessels, in the Style of Kenzan

The artistic style of Kako-zan Kiln inherits the aesthetic sensibility of Ogata Kenzan, a leading potter of the Edo period. Kenzan was a master who created numerous free and elegant works, combining the rustic texture of pottery with painterly designs, using familiar natural subjects such as flowers and plants.

Kako-zan Kiln's vessels beautifully capture the four seasons while utilizing the warm expression unique to earthenware. Inheriting the aesthetic sensibilities of Kyo-yaki pottery from Kenzan's era, these matcha bowls are finished with a vibrant and inviting appeal that can be enjoyed in modern life.