Matcha Bowl - “Pine, Bamboo & Plum Blossoms” by Kakozan Kiln

Matcha Bowl with Seasonal Flowers and Plants

This matcha bowl is from the Kasan Kofuzan kiln, which has been in business for four generations in Gojozaka, Kyoto. Inspired by the flowers and plants that adorn Japan's four seasons, it expresses the beautiful scenery of each season within the vessel. Amidst its vibrant colors, one can feel the rustic beauty of nature, making it a bowl that adds seasonal color not only to tea ceremonies but also to daily tea time.

Elegant Colors Drawn with Traditional Japanese Pigments

At the Kasan Kofuzan kiln, each piece is hand-painted, carefully preserving traditional Japanese pigments. A significant feature is the subtle unevenness and three-dimensionality created by layering colors with delicate brushwork and carefully applying the pigments.

The soft colors, intricate depictions, and the expressive brushstrokes unique to hand-painting. The warm texture of the pottery harmonizes with the vibrant painting, allowing for a rich array of expressions depending on the viewing angle and how the light hits it.

Kasan Kofuzan Kiln's Vessels, Following the Style of Ogata Kenzan

The artistic style of the Kasan Kofuzan kiln inherits the aesthetic sensibility of Ogata Kenzan, a prominent potter of 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 rustic texture of pottery with painterly decorations.

Kasan Kofuzan kiln's vessels celebrate the warm texture unique to earthenware while gracefully depicting nature throughout the four seasons. Inheriting the aesthetic sensibilities of Kyo ware that originated with Kenzan, these matcha bowls are finished to be vibrant and approachable, enjoyable in modern life.