Sasaki Shōraku - Chawan - Ceramic - Aka Raku tea bowl

This is a Japanese Aka Raku tea bowl (red Raku Chawan) created by Sasaki Shōraku, with an inscription by Zen priest Yano Issho of the Daitoku-ji temple lineage.

Features:
• Traditional Aka Raku tea bowl featuring a warm vermilion to persimmon-colored glaze
• Beautiful contrast between red Raku glaze and black glaze accents, creating a unique katami-gawari style appearance
• Fine crackle patterns across the surface, adding depth and character to the glaze
• Hand-shaped form with natural irregularities and a slightly angular rim, characteristic of Raku ware
• Clear Raku-style impressed mark visible near the foot
• Original wooden box with calligraphy and seal by Yano Issho, a priest of the Daitoku-ji lineage, included
• Comes with Raku-yaki historical document and yellow protective cloth with Shōraku seal

The combination of traditional Raku craftsmanship, the elegant glaze contrast, and the prestigious box inscription makes this a particularly attractive piece for collectors of Japanese tea ceremony utensils. The connection to the Daitoku-ji Zen tradition adds further historical and cultural significance.

Dimensions
Diameter: Approx. 11–12 cm
Height: Approx. 6–7 cm

Color
Vermilion / Persimmon red with black glaze variations

Accessories
Original wooden box (tomobako), Raku-yaki historical document, and yellow protective cloth included

Condition
Used condition.
A small repaired area, likely a gold repair (kintsugi), is visible on the rim.
No other noticeable scratches, cracks, or major damage have been found.
Please carefully review the photos for the detailed condition of the item.

About the Artist
Sasaki Shōraku is a Japanese Raku ceramic artist from the Shōraku kiln tradition. According to the included documents, the kiln was established in Kameoka, Kyoto, and has continued the tradition of Raku ware, a unique style of Japanese ceramics with a history of more than 400 years.

The Shōraku kiln is known for producing tea ceremony utensils that preserve the spirit of traditional Raku craftsmanship, including hand-shaped forms and expressive glaze effects. The works are appreciated by collectors for their connection to the long history of Japanese tea culture.

【About Japan Antique】
One of the unique characteristics of Japanese pottery is that even pieces of the same shape can vary dramatically in price—sometimes several times, or even more than ten times—depending on subtle differences in color, glaze, or pattern.

Each work is truly one of a kind, as the same design is never reproduced exactly.
The value of Japanese ceramics is often determined not only by the artist and history, but also by how strongly a collector connects with the beauty and atmosphere of a particular piece.

This is one of the true joys of collecting Japanese antiques.

Generally speaking, both the item itself and its original box are more desirable when they are preserved in clean condition.
However, in some cases, signs of age such as stains, wear, or repairs can enhance the sense of history and add to the charm of an antique piece.

This aspect is sometimes unpredictable, even for experienced collectors.

Attention:
• Combined shipping is only available when the items are purchased at a reasonable price. Please first complete payment for one item, then contact me by message to discuss combined shipping.
• If the item is sold at an unreasonably low price, it will be shipped using the cheapest method available, and no shipping preferences will be accepted.
• Please carefully review the photos to confirm the item’s condition before placing a bid, and bid only if you are satisfied with what you see.
• Unfortunately, we are unable to accept returns or refunds for reasons such as a change of mind or if the item does not meet personal expectations.
• Please check your country's laws regarding import duties or taxes.
• We are not responsible for any costs incurred during importation into the buyer’s country.
• If the item is returned due to unpaid customs duties or incorrect/incomplete buyer information, all reshipping costs and handling fees will be the responsibility of the buyer.

Thank you for your understanding.