Matcha bowl -天目"Tenmoku"(1C) by Teiichi Oketani

The Fiery Miracle of 天目"Tenmoku"

A Rare Masterpiece Honoring Tradition

Handcrafted by Kyoto-based ceramic artist, the late Teiichi Oketani II.

Dedicated to the art of tea utensils, he spent his life perfecting the craft of 天目"Tenmoku" matcha bowls.

Born in 1935 in Kyoto, Oketani inherited his father’s kiln and expertise in Kyo-ware and Kiyomizu-ware. He later succeeded his father as the second-generation Teiichi.

Despite the challenges of his era, he remained committed to pottery, producing exquisite works that continue to be cherished by collectors.

What Makes 天目"Tenmoku" So Special?

Tenmoku is a centuries-old glazing technique that transforms mineral-rich glazes into breathtaking patterns during firing.

The process demands precise control of oxygen levels and temperature, making it one of the most difficult ceramic techniques to master.

Because the kiln’s unpredictable conditions influence the final outcome, no two Tenmoku bowls are ever identical—each piece is a work of art.

This is truly a 一期一会“Ichigo Ichie” find.

“Ichigo Ichie” (一期一会) is a Japanese philosophy that means “a once-in-a-lifetime encounter.” Deeply rooted in the spirit of the tea ceremony, it reminds us to treasure each moment and appreciate the present.

Seiichi Oketani II devoted his life to the art of pottery. Through this remarkable matcha bowl, we hope to share his final masterpieces with the world.

By offering free international shipping, KOTOPOTTER aims to introduce more people to the refined traditions of the Japanese tea ceremony and the beauty of Kyoto’s ceramic heritage.

Secure Shipping

Each item is carefully packaged in a KOTOPOTTER's original gift box and shipped with insured delivery for peace of mind.

To ensure safe delivery, the owner personally handles all packaging, carefully wrapping each piece with attention to detail.

Shop with confidence, knowing your pottery will arrive safely.

About the Artist: Teiichi Oketani II

Real Name: Hiroshi Oketani

Born in 1935 in Kyoto’s Higashiyama , Oketani trained under his father, a renowned Kyo-ware and Kiyomizu-ware potter specializing in Tenmoku glazes.

After inheriting the family kiln and adopting the name Seiichi II, he gained recognition for his outstanding work, receiving numerous accolades:

• Japan Traditional Craft Kinki Exhibition – 10-time award winner
• Japan Traditional Craft Exhibition – 3-time finalist
• Kyoto Craft Exhibition – Silver Award
• Kyoto Art & Craft Exhibition – Excellence Award
• Selected for the Kyoto Exhibition and other prestigious ceramic competitions

As a member of the Japan Crafts Association and Kyoto Art and Craft Association, Oketani left behind a legacy of masterful Kyoto ceramics.

owner's comment

Now, this exquisite handmade matcha bowl from his final works can be yours—a true collector’s piece that embodies the refined artistry of Japan.