Matcha Bowl with Jun-Style Glaze by Masashi Iwasaki – With Original Wooden Box - Chawan - Porcelain

Description:

This exquisite matcha bowl (chawan) is the work of Masashi Iwasaki (岩﨑正), a skilled Japanese ceramic artist celebrated for his mastery of Jun-style glazing (鈞窯釉掛). The piece comes complete with its original wooden tomobako inscribed and signed by the artist, confirming its authenticity.

The bowl’s surface is adorned with a stunning fusion of colors—celadon blue merging with hints of crimson and olive green—a hallmark of the Jun glaze tradition. The natural dripping of the glaze, along with its fine network of crackles (kannyū), creates an impression of flowing water or shifting clouds, giving the piece an almost ethereal presence. This dynamic color gradation and subtle translucence make it as much a visual artwork as a functional vessel for tea.

About Masashi Iwasaki (岩﨑正):
Masashi Iwasaki is a modern Japanese ceramic artist known for his refined approach to traditional glazes. His works often explore the harmony between classical Chinese influences and Japanese aesthetics of restraint and natural beauty. Through controlled kiln firing and an intuitive sense for glaze layering, Iwasaki achieves unique color transitions that make each piece singular and deeply expressive.

About Jun Glaze (鈞窯釉掛 / Junyao-yūgake):
The Jun glaze, originally developed in Song-dynasty China (12th–13th century), is renowned for its opalescent blue tones and crimson “blushes” that appear where copper oxides react during firing. Japanese potters have long admired and adapted this technique, using it to express the beauty of spontaneity and imperfection. The unpredictable nature of Jun glaze firing means that no two pieces are ever alike—each becomes a moment captured in glaze and flame.

About the Matcha Bowl (抹茶碗 / Chawan):
A chawan is a tea bowl used in the Japanese tea ceremony, an art form that harmonizes simplicity, form, and mindfulness. Beyond its function, the chawan is appreciated as a work of art, reflecting the spirit of wabi-sabi—the beauty of imperfection, quietness, and transience. The weight, curvature, and tactile surface of this bowl invite both aesthetic appreciation and meditative use.

Expert’s Insight:
This chawan by Iwasaki beautifully encapsulates the philosophy of controlled chance in ceramic art. The interplay between cool celadon blues and the soft eruption of red glaze exemplifies the living, breathing nature of Jun ware. Its rich glaze depth, balanced form, and organic texture evoke a sense of quiet power—ideal for both tea practice and art display.

Antique/Vintage Notice:
This is a vintage item. Please note that it may show natural signs of age, such as minor wear, slight discoloration, or subtle imperfections. These characteristics are part of its history and enhance its authenticity.

Shipping & Handling:
We ship worldwide from Japan using insured and trackable services. All items are professionally packed to ensure safe delivery. Import duties or customs fees are the buyer’s responsibility. Delivery may take time depending on your location. Feel free to reach out with any questions.