■ Please Note: I usually ship within 24 hours after payment. However, payments made on Friday, Saturday, or Sunday will be shipped on Monday since the post office is closed on weekends. Tracking updates on Catawiki may take some time to appear. Shipping costs include insurance but not customs duties. Import taxes or customs fees may apply depending on your country, and I cannot influence or adjust them. If you disagree with the customs charges, please contact your local customs office directly. As this item ships from Japan, delivery may take longer than usual. ■ Authenticity & Handcrafted Nature: This tea bowl is an authentic work from Tsukamoto Kiln of Mashiko and is accompanied by its original signed wooden box (tomobako) and certificate (shiori). The bowl is wheel-thrown using Mashiko clay, known for its iron-rich composition. Natural glaze layering, brush-applied slip, and firing effects such as ash deposits, tonal gradation, and subtle kiln marks are inherent to traditional Mashiko production. Each piece reflects individual kiln atmosphere and cannot be replicated exactly. ■ Estimated Period: Late 20th century (1980–2000) — a period when Mashiko potters continued the Mingei philosophy, emphasizing honest materials, functional beauty, and the preservation of regional ceramic identity in response to industrial mass production. ■ Description: This Mashiko Chawan expresses grounded strength and rustic authenticity. The exterior surface features layered natural glazes in earthy tones — cream, olive, brown, and ash-gray — flowing diagonally across the body. The dynamic brushwork contrasts with the solid, well-balanced form. The foot is firmly trimmed, providing stability and visual weight, while the slightly thick rim enhances tactile presence during tea preparation. What is Mashiko Ware? Mashiko Ware originates from Tochigi Prefecture and became internationally recognized in the 20th century through the Japanese Mingei (folk craft) movement. Mashiko ceramics are characterized by: Iron-rich clay bodies Natural ash glazes Practical forms rooted in daily use Emphasis on “beauty in utility” Unlike aristocratic Kyoto porcelain traditions, Mashiko developed as a working pottery culture. Its aesthetic celebrates sincerity, weight, and material honesty. Today, Mashiko ware is widely respected among collectors who appreciate authenticity over ornamentation. What is Tsukamoto Kiln? Tsukamoto Kiln is one of the established kilns within Mashiko’s ceramic community. The kiln maintains traditional production methods while refining glaze layering and form balance. Works from Tsukamoto Kiln reflect: Strong, stable proportions Controlled yet expressive glaze brushwork Commitment to Mashiko’s Mingei-rooted philosophy The presence of the original signed wooden box and certificate confirms workshop origin and significantly enhances collector confidence and long-term provenance. What is a Chawan? A Chawan is the central vessel used in the Japanese tea ceremony. In Mashiko interpretation, the Chawan emphasizes warmth, weight, and hand-feel rather than decorative refinement. The tactile surface, earthy tones, and grounded silhouette create a direct sensory connection between clay and user. This bowl’s diagonal glaze flow introduces subtle movement while maintaining structural calm. Original Wooden Box and Certificate The tomobako bears the kiln’s inscription and seal, authenticating the work. The included certificate provides contextual documentation. Complete sets are especially important in international markets, ensuring provenance, exhibition integrity, and resale stability. ■ Expert’s Insight: Mashiko ware occupies a distinctive place within Japanese ceramics because it represents resistance to industrial uniformity. Rooted in the Mingei movement, it values craftsmanship, humility, and the quiet dignity of functional objects. This bowl demonstrates confident glaze layering and a balanced mass that sits comfortably in the hands. The interaction between creamy slip and darker iron clay produces a landscape-like surface formed by gravity and flame rather than decorative intent. For European collectors, Mashiko ware resonates strongly with modern studio pottery movements that emphasize authenticity and tactile presence. This is not a delicate porcelain piece — it is a grounded, sculptural tea bowl that speaks of earth, fire, and human touch. ■ Antique/Vintage Notice: This item may show natural kiln effects, glaze variations, minor surface irregularities, or firing marks inherent to traditional Mashiko production. These characteristics are not defects but evidence of authenticity and craftsmanship. Please review all images carefully before purchasing. ■Shipping & Handling: We ship worldwide from Japan using insured and trackable services. All items are professionally packed to ensure safe delivery. Import duties or customs fees are the buyer’s responsibility. Delivery may take time depending on your location. Feel free to reach out with any questions.