【Item Description】 This exquisite chawan (matcha tea bowl) is a masterwork of Kutani-ware craftsmanship from the Koyo Kiln, showcasing the celebrated kin-saishoku (gold overglaze polychrome) technique for which Kutani ceramics have been prized for over 350 years. The entire exterior surface is lavished with luminous gold leaf decoration applied in the kinrande tradition, upon which bold, gestural brushwork depicts flowering plum branches (ume) in full bloom — a motif deeply embedded in Japanese aesthetic culture as a symbol of perseverance and the arrival of spring. The plum blossoms are rendered with striking contrast: the white petals are reserved in unglazed areas, with vivid crimson stamens painted at their centers, while the gnarled branches are expressed in sweeping, ink-like strokes of deep olive and black overglaze enamel. A subtle lattice-like gold ground pattern adds depth and texture to the golden field. What makes this piece particularly rare among Kutani wares is its distinctly hand-formed quality. While most Kutani ceramics feature precisely uniform shapes, this bowl retains a beautifully organic, slightly asymmetrical form with visible traces of the potter's hand — a warmth and individuality seldom seen in the Kutani tradition. It sits comfortably in the palms, as if made to be held. Each sip of matcha from this bowl invites the drinker to close their eyes and imagine the quiet beauty of a Japanese spring — plum blossoms trembling in the cool air, their fragrance drifting across a golden morning sky. A distinguished and rare example of Kutani ceramics, where the refined gold overglaze tradition meets the soulful intimacy of hand-crafted form. 【Size】 Height: 8 cm Width (diameter): 12.5 cm 【Weight】 372 g 【Condition】 The bowl is in good overall condition. 【Artist Profile】 This tea bowl reflects the traditional division of labour (bungyō) characteristic of Kutani-ware production, whereby the forming of the vessel and its overglaze decoration are carried out by separate specialist hands. The bowl bears an impressed seal mark on the foot ring (kodai) identifying the individual potter who formed the piece, while the red overglaze kiln mark on the body identifies the Koyo Kiln (光陽窯) as responsible for the gold and polychrome overglaze decoration. The Koyo Kiln operates within the Kutani-ware tradition of Ishikawa Prefecture, Japan. Kutani ware has been produced in the southern Ishikawa region since 1655 and is renowned for its bold overglaze polychrome painting and lavish use of gold. The kinrande (gold brocade) technique — applying gold over vibrant enamel grounds — has been a defining feature of Kutani since the Meiji era, when it gained international acclaim as "Japan Kutani." ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Shipping & Important Notice [Shipping] Your item will be carefully packaged and shipped from Japan via Japan Post, DHL, or FedEx with a tracking number. Please note that due to the current situation in the Middle East, some international flights and shipping routes are being rerouted. As a result, delivery may take longer than usual (approximately 3 weeks or more). We appreciate your patience as we prioritize the safest and most reliable route for your package. [Customs and Duties] Import duties, taxes, and VAT are not included in the item price or shipping cost. These charges are the buyer's responsibility and vary by country. Please check with your local customs office for details. [Important: Delivery Contact] Customs or the delivery courier in your country may contact you via phone or email for clearance. Please ensure you are available to respond to their inquiries. Note: If a parcel is returned due to a lack of contact, the buyer will be responsible for all additional costs, including return shipping and reshipping fees (which can be significantly higher than the original cost). I truly appreciate your understanding and cooperation. Bid with confidence!