Matcha Bowl - Tenmoku “Glaze Pool” 4F by Teiichi Oketani

Tenmoku created by fire

This tenmoku matcha bowl is beautiful with its deep, lustrous colors and the complex patterns created by the glaze.

Tenmoku glaze uses a high iron content, and its appearance varies greatly depending on the firing temperature, the flame, and the conditions inside the kiln. The way the glaze flows, mixes, and forms crystals and patterns is unique to each bowl. You can enjoy the beauty created by the glaze and fire, which cannot be completely controlled by human hands.

The historic Tenmoku Chawan, introduced from China

The origin of the Tenmoku chawan lies in the black-glazed tea bowls fired in China during the Song dynasty. During that period, the widely practiced method of preparing tea involved whisking powdered tea, and black tea bowls, which beautifully highlighted the white foam of the tea, were highly prized. They were introduced to Japan through Zen monks and other channels.

The deep color of the glaze and the refined, taut form are well-suited to modern matcha. It is a matcha bowl that you will want to enjoy not only as a tool for preparing matcha, but also by simply admiring the scenery created by the glaze itself.

Teiichi Oketani, the potter who pursued Tenmoku

Teiichi Oketani II was born in the pottery district of Higashiyama, Kyoto. He learned pottery from his father, Teiichi I, who specialized in tenmoku glaze, and inherited his skills while also pursuing the expression of tenmoku for many years.

With tenmoku, slight differences in firing conditions can drastically alter the glaze's color and pattern. The great appeal of Teiichi Oketani's work lies in his ability to confront these unpredictable kiln changes and bring out beautiful scenery within each bowl.

No two Tenmoku tea bowls have the same expression; each possesses different colors and glaze patterns. This is a special bowl that allows you to enjoy the profound world of glaze created by a master craftsman who has dedicated many years to Tenmoku.

A word from the owner

This is a tenmoku matcha bowl by Teiichi Oketani, a master craftsman of tenmoku chawan.

It is a highly finished piece with beautiful patterns and deep colors, but a glaze pool formed on the outside, making it a unique piece with a different character from typical works.

This piece is recommended for those who can embrace the glaze pool as part of its character and enjoy its uniqueness. It is a special bowl that allows you to appreciate the beauty of Teiichi Oketani's tenmoku glaze.