– Takahashi Dōhachi lineage: distinguished Kyoto potter dynasty with imperial patronage – Classic calligraphic inscription capturing literati sensibilities of the tea ceremony – Generous tea bowl form ideal for display or serious tea practice Summary: This tea bowl bears the mark of Takahashi Dōhachi, a name synonymous with refined Kyoto pottery spanning generations from the late Edo period onwards. The Dōhachi lineage is renowned for its elegant approach to tea ceramics, combining classical craftsmanship with literary aesthetics. This piece features a thoughtful calligraphic inscription – "Shōnan Sokuji" – evoking poetic imagery central to Japanese tea culture. Its warm, earthy palette and comfortable form reflect the traditional ideals of wabi-sabi. The bowl shows some age-appropriate wear consistent with its period, adding to its historical character. A fine example of Kyoto chawan for collectors interested in Japanese tea ceremony tradition and the scholar-potter tradition. There are tea bowls made for daily use, and there are tea bowls reserved for contemplative moments when a single sip becomes a meditation. This chawan belongs firmly to the latter category. Created within the celebrated Takahashi Dōhachi tradition, it exemplifies the refined taste that emerged in Kyoto's kilns during the transition from Edo to Meiji. The Dōhachi lineage has operated in Kyoto since the mid-Edo period, with successive generations serving tea masters, nobility, and discerning collectors. The name itself became a hallmark of quality – these potters understood not only clay and glaze but also the poetic underpinnings of the tea ceremony. Their wares often feature calligraphy and imagery drawn from classical Chinese and Japanese literature, transforming functional vessels into meditations on beauty and transience. This particular tea bowl bears an inscription referencing "Shōnan," likely alluding to the scenic beauty of the Shōnan coastal region, long celebrated in Japanese poetry and painting. The phrase "Sokuji" suggests immediacy, a "right now" quality that resonates with the Zen ideal of presence during tea. The glaze is soft and warm, with subtle variations that suggest natural ash effects or deliberate oxidation. The foot is sturdy, the walls well-proportioned – neither too thin nor too heavy – allowing the bowl to rest comfortably in the hands during service. In a contemporary setting, this tea bowl offers more than historical cachet. Its neutral tones and elegant proportions allow it to sit beautifully on a minimalist shelf or within a Japanese-inspired interior. Whether used occasionally for matcha or displayed as a sculptural object, it brings a sense of quiet refinement to any space. The condition reflects its age. There are minor signs of handling – light surface wear, perhaps a small chip or two along the rim – entirely consistent with a piece that has been appreciated and used over many decades. These marks do not detract from the overall integrity of the bowl; rather, they add to its narrative, reminding us that objects of beauty gain depth through time. Collectors of Japanese tea ceramics will recognise the significance of the Dōhachi name. Works by this lineage appear in public and private collections throughout Japan and beyond, valued for their scholarly elegance and historical continuity. This tea bowl represents an accessible entry point into that distinguished tradition. If you value the intersection of craft, poetry, and ceremony, this chawan offers a quiet invitation to slow down and savour the moment. 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. 1193