Seto-yaki (瀬戸焼), Ryu-gama (龍窯) - Kawamura Masuhiro (河村益弘) - Teeschale - Ton - Ondai-Chawan

Seto-yaki Chawan "Sugata" (The Figure) - 1998 Imperial Theme - Hand-carved Monk by Kawamura Masuhiro (Ryu-gama)

This is a sophisticated Japanese Tea Bowl (Chawan) in the Seto-yaki style, crafted by the master of the Ryu-gama kiln. It is a prestigious "Odai Chawan" (Imperial Theme Tea Bowl), created for the 1998 Imperial New Year's Poetry Reading.

【What is "Utakai-hajime" & "Odai Chawan"?】
The Utakai-hajime (Imperial New Year's Poetry Reading) is a traditional Japanese ceremony with over 1,000 years of history. Every year, a specific theme (Kanji character) is chosen by the Emperor. Artists across Japan create limited-edition tea utensils, known as Odai Chawan, inspired by this sacred theme to celebrate the New Year.

【The 1998 Theme: "Sugata" (The Figure)】
The theme for 1998 was "Sugata" (Appearance/Figure). On this occasion, the Emperor (now Emperor Emeritus) composed a beautiful Waka poem:
"Uchi-tsuzuku ta wa yutakanaru midori nite minoru inaho no sugata ureshiki"
(The continuous rice fields are a lush green, and the appearance of the ripening rice ears is a joy to behold.)

While the poem praises the peaceful landscape of a bountiful harvest, the artist, Kawamura Masuhiro, interpreted this theme through a spiritual lens. He hand-carved the "Sugata" (figure) of a wandering Zen monk into the bowl. This represents the humble spirit of gratitude and the continuous journey of the soul amidst the peaceful abundance of the land.

【Artist: Kawamura Masuhiro (Ryu-gama)】
A master potter from Seto, one of Japan’s "Six Ancient Kilns." Kawamura is renowned for his ability to blend traditional Seto techniques with poetic and spiritual narratives, making his tea utensils highly sought after for tea ceremonies (Chanoyu).

【Condition & Design】

Style:
Seto-ware with a warm, milky-white glaze and delicate crackle patterns (Kannyu).
Motif:
A minimalist yet expressive line-carving of a monk with a bamboo hat and staff.
Condition:
Excellent (Like new).
Accessories:
Comes with the original Paulownia wood box (Tomobako) signed and sealed by the artist, and the original protective cloth.

【Specifications】

Height: 8.1 cm
Diameter: 12.1 cm
Foot diameter (Koudai): 4.5 cm
Weight: 300 g

Shipping & Environment
Eco-Friendly Packaging:
In our commitment to environmental sustainability, we use recycled and repurposed packaging materials (such as boxes and cushioning) whenever possible. Rest assured, your item will be packed with the utmost care to ensure its safe arrival while minimizing our ecological footprint.

Courier:
The item will be shipped securely via DHL, FedEx, or Japan Post with a tracking number, depending on the destination and efficiency.

Note:
Import duties, taxes, and charges are not included in the item price or shipping cost. These charges are the buyer's responsibility.