Exquisite Kuro-Raku Tea Bowl "Ichigo-Ichie" by Ueda Tozo – Authenticated & Inscribed with Waka Poem by Kobayashi Taigen (Daitoku-ji Temple) The Harmony of Art and Zen This profound Kuro-Raku (Black Raku) tea bowl, titled "Ichigo-Ichie" (Once-in-a-Lifetime Encounter), is a masterpiece that unites the finest Kyoto craftsmanship with the spiritual authority of Zen Buddhism. Created during the golden era of modern Kyoto ceramics (late 20th century, approx. 1980–2000), it represents a perfect collaboration between a master potter and a renowned Zen abbot. The Artist: Ueda Tozo (Tohei Kiln, Kyoto) The bowl is crafted by Ueda Tozo, a distinguished master of the Tohei Kiln in Fushimi, Kyoto. Mastery: He is celebrated for preserving the authentic "Te-tsukune" (hand-molding) technique, creating a warm, organic form that fits perfectly in the hands. Authentication: The base of the bowl bears the official "Tozo" (陶造) seal, and the side of the wooden box is signed by the artist. The Inscription & Waka Poem: Rev. Kobayashi Taigen The "Hakogaki" (inscription on the lid) was personally brushed by Kobayashi Taigen (b. 1938), the 20th Head Abbot of Koto-in, Daitoku-ji Temple—the spiritual heart of the Japanese tea ceremony. Rev. Taigen has graced this bowl with a soulful Waka poem: "Listen to the voice of the wind through the pines; let it resonate through the generations, my friend. For the encounters in this world are precious, on a day that will never come again." The "wind through the pines" (Matsukaze) is a poetic metaphor for the sound of boiling tea water, symbolizing the ultimate tranquility and the preciousness of human connection. Specifications Dimensions: Height: 8.3 cm Diameter: 11.5 cm Base (Kodai) Diameter: 5.3 cm Weight: Tea Bowl: 340 g Original Wooden Box (Tomobako): 240 g Total: 580 g Condition: Excellent vintage condition. Sustainability & Shipping Eco-Friendly Packaging (Environmental Commitment) To help protect our planet, I use recycled and repurposed packaging materials whenever possible. Please be assured that while the exterior may be recycled, the interior is handled with the utmost care, using professional-grade cushioning to ensure your delicate Kuro-Raku bowl arrives safely. Shipping & Handling Method: Worldwide shipping via FedEx, DHL or EMS (Express Mail Service), Japan Post with a tracking number. Customs: Import duties, taxes, and charges are the buyer's responsibility. Handling Time: Ships within 2-3 business days after payment confirmation.