– Signed tea bowl (chawan) by a contemporary Japanese potter – Yohen (kiln-change) glaze with rich purple, blue, and metallic hues – Hand-thrown stoneware with organic form and spontaneous firing effects Summary: This signed tea bowl showcases the unpredictable beauty of yohen glazes—those dramatic "kiln-change" effects that transform during firing into iridescent, multicoloured surfaces. The glaze here displays rich purple, blue, and metallic tones that shift in the light, creating a surface of considerable depth and visual interest. The form is hand-thrown with gentle asymmetries, aligning with the wabi-sabi aesthetic. While the maker's signature is present, the focus here is on the glaze itself—a striking example of contemporary Japanese ceramic experimentation. Condition is very good, with no chips or cracks. Some glazes behave. Others have a mind of their own. This tea bowl belongs firmly to the second category. The yohen glaze—literally "kiln-change"—is one of the most unpredictable in the ceramic repertoire. It reacts to the heat, the flame's movement, the position in the kiln, the minerals in the clay. The result is a surface that cannot be planned or repeated, each piece unique, each one a small act of collaboration between potter and fire. On this bowl, the glaze has produced a striking palette of purple, blue, and metallic hues. Where the glaze is thick, it takes on a deep, almost liquid quality, with iridescent flashes that appear and disappear as the light changes. Where it thins, the underlying clay shows through in warm browns and greys. The surface is slightly textured, with small irregularities and variations that add tactile interest. This is a glaze that rewards prolonged looking—there is always something new to notice, some subtle shift in colour or tone. Yohen glazes have a long and storied history in Japanese ceramics. The most famous examples are the Song dynasty Chinese tenmoku bowls with their "hare's-fur" and "oil-spot" effects, a small number of which made their way to Japan centuries ago and became treasured possessions of tea masters and feudal lords. Japanese potters have been experimenting with yohen effects ever since, seeking to recreate or reinterpret those ancient glazes using modern kiln technology and materials. This bowl is signed, indicating that the maker considers it a successful piece worthy of their mark. The signature is placed discreetly on the foot ring, as is customary. The form itself is classical—a gently curving bowl with a slightly irregular rim and a well-cut foot ring (kodai). The walls are of medium thickness, the overall shape harmonious and balanced. This is a bowl that demonstrates both technical skill and an understanding of traditional forms, while the glaze brings a contemporary, experimental energy. The yohen glaze makes this piece particularly striking in display. The rich colours and iridescent surface catch the light beautifully, making the bowl a strong visual presence whether used or simply displayed on a shelf. In a contemporary European interior, it functions well as both a functional object and a decorative piece. It can be used for matcha, of course, but also for coffee, soup, or simply as a sculptural object in its own right. The dramatic colouring works well in minimalist spaces, adding a note of warmth and visual interest without overwhelming the surrounding objects. Tea bowls with yohen glazes are particularly valued by collectors who appreciate the element of chance and natural process in ceramics. Each piece is unique, the result of a firing that can never be exactly repeated. This bowl, with its rich colouring and striking surface, is a fine example of contemporary Japanese ceramic experimentation—a piece that honours traditional forms while embracing the unpredictable beauty of fire and glaze. Shipping & Handling We ship worldwide via DHL or EMS with full insurance and tracking. Professional packing ensures safe arrival; combined shipping available for multiple wins. Local customs duties are the buyer's responsibility. Seller Guarantee We specialise in authentic Japanese ceramics and guarantee this piece's authenticity. Questions welcome – we reply within 24 hours. 1230