Offered here is a pair of Ōhi ware (大樋焼) chawan (tea bowls) made by the Japanese ceramic artist Hōnan Nishizaka (西坂方南). Ōhi-yaki, a branch of Raku ware, originated in Kanazawa, Ishikawa Prefecture, and is particularly esteemed in the Japanese tea ceremony tradition for its warmth, soft form, and hand-molded expression. These bowls reflect the spirit of wabi-sabi, celebrating beauty in simplicity and imperfection. This set includes two distinctive pieces: ●Reddish-brown chawan: This bowl is finished in a warm, earthy glaze with subtle textural variations and a slightly undulating rim. It embodies the rustic aesthetics of traditional Ōhi ware, with a pleasant weight and balanced form in hand. Width: 12 cm Height: 8 cm ●Black chawan (repaired with kintsugi): The second bowl is coated in a deep, glossy black glaze with dark reddish undertones. It has undergone visible kintsugi restoration—a traditional Japanese technique using lacquer and powdered gold to repair cracks. The repair can be seen along the inner and outer wall, as well as on the rim (see detailed photos). This restoration emphasizes the Japanese philosophy of embracing flaws as part of an object's history and enhances the unique character of the piece. Width: 11 cm Height: 7.8 cm Both bowls are signed on the foot with the artist’s seal and come housed in their original signed wooden tomobako (storage boxes), individually labeled and inscribed by the artist. About Ōhi ware (大樋焼) Ōhi-yaki is a traditional form of Japanese pottery that originated in the 17th century in Kanazawa, Ishikawa Prefecture. Closely associated with the practice of tea ceremony, it is considered a branch of Raku ware. Ōhi-yaki is known for its hand-molded construction, soft contours, and subtle glazes, which are often amber, brown, or black in tone. Unlike wheel-thrown pottery, Ōhi ware is formed by hand-coiling, giving each piece an organic and unrepeatable shape. The firing is done at low temperatures, allowing the clay to retain a soft, tactile texture. Ōhi ware is particularly appreciated for its ability to enhance the sensory experience of the tea ceremony—its warmth when held, and the subdued elegance of its finish. The tradition began with Ōhi Chōzaemon, a potter who worked under the patronage of the Maeda clan and with the guidance of Sen no Rikyū’s lineage. Today, Ōhi-yaki continues to be crafted by descendants of the Ōhi family and other contemporary potters who uphold and evolve its aesthetic principles. About Hōnan Nishizaka (西坂方南) Hōnan Nishizaka is a contemporary Japanese potter with a focus on Ōhi-yaki. His works draw from the centuries-old traditions of Kanazawa and the broader Raku lineage. Through careful hand-molding and natural firing processes, Hōnan creates tea bowls that emphasize tactile warmth and visual depth. His artistry respects the ceremonial and contemplative roots of tea culture, and each work embodies the spirit of harmony, respect, purity, and tranquility—principles central to the tea ceremony. Hōnan’s practice reflects a modern continuation of the Ōhi ware tradition, balancing innovation with fidelity to classic forms and methods. His pieces are held in high regard by tea practitioners and collectors of Japanese ceramics alike. Shipping / Policy Carefully packaged and shipped from Japan by Japan Post or DHL with tracking. If you purchase multiple items, combined shipping is available. Please contact us if needed. Import duties, VAT (or equivalent consumption tax), and any other fees are the responsibility of the buyer. Guarantee Our shop is a licensed antiques dealer in Japan. We guarantee the authenticity of this work.