– By Japanese ceramic artist Sakamoto Shin – Wide, open tea-bowl form with a soft pale blue interior and milky celadon-white exterior – A serene contemporary vessel that combines refined simplicity with strong sculptural presence Summary: A beautifully restrained tea bowl by Sakamoto Shin, distinguished by its wide, open form and its softly luminous pale blue glaze. The bowl is defined by a gentle contrast between the cool, almost translucent interior and the quieter milky tones of the exterior, creating an effect of remarkable calm. Its elegant profile, flaring rim and low foot give it a poised, architectural presence while preserving the intimacy expected of a tea vessel. The result is a work of contemporary Japanese studio pottery that speaks through subtlety, balance and light. The first impression is one of stillness. Unlike pieces that rely on strong decoration or dramatic surface movement, this bowl achieves its effect through restraint. The interior opens in a broad, shallow curve and holds a delicate pale blue tone that recalls clear water, morning light or thin ice. The colour is gentle rather than intense, yet it gives the piece its unmistakable identity. The shape contributes greatly to this atmosphere. The bowl widens elegantly from a small foot into a generous flared mouth, creating a profile that feels both stable and open. This proportion gives the vessel a sense of quiet expansion, drawing the eye inward towards the luminous centre. The exterior is equally refined. Soft celadon-white tones wrap the body with a subtle satin-like calm, providing a muted counterpoint to the cooler interior. The transition between the two areas is handled with great delicacy, allowing the bowl to read as a unified whole rather than a sharply divided composition. Sakamoto Shin’s strength lies in his ability to let glaze, form and light do the work. Here, the surface changes gently according to its surroundings. In softer light it appears almost mist-like and understated; in brighter light the pale blue interior becomes clearer and more radiant. This responsiveness gives the bowl a contemplative quality that suits both use and display. The wide opening and shallow depth make it especially appealing as a tea bowl, where the interior surface becomes central to the experience of handling and viewing the piece. At the same time, the form has a sculptural independence that allows it to function beautifully on a shelf, table or display cabinet. The foot remains modest and well judged, lifting the bowl just enough to give it presence without disturbing the purity of the profile. Around the underside, natural kiln effects and slight irregularities contribute to the individuality of the piece and reinforce its studio-made character. In a contemporary interior, the bowl works exceptionally well with wood, linen, stone and other natural materials. Its pale palette gives it a light, almost atmospheric presence, while the simplicity of the form allows it to sit comfortably within both Japanese and European settings. The bowl presents attractively, with natural variations in glaze and firing, together with minor irregularities around the foot consistent with individually made ceramics. These qualities are part of the work’s character and add to its quiet authenticity. For collectors of contemporary Japanese ceramics, this is a particularly elegant example of how minimal means can produce a deeply expressive result. Sakamoto Shin transforms a simple tea bowl into an object of poise, luminosity and lasting calm. 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.