Red Raku Tea Bowl (Aka-raku Chawan) by Katsura Kiln with Artist’s Seal - Chawan - Porcelain

Description:

Katsura Kiln (桂窯):
Katsura Kiln is a Kyoto-based pottery workshop specializing in Raku ware tea bowls. Rooted in the centuries-old Raku tradition, this kiln produces tea bowls that respect the wabi-sabi aesthetic of imperfection, warmth, and intimacy. Each work is hand-formed and individually fired, ensuring that no two bowls are ever alike.

Raku Ware (楽焼):
Raku ware originated in the 16th century under the guidance of Sen no Rikyū, the great tea master, and the first Raku potter, Chōjirō. Characterized by hand-molded forms, low-temperature firing, and a focus on tactile intimacy, Raku has become one of the most revered ceramic traditions in the Japanese tea ceremony.

Red Raku (Aka-raku):
Aka-raku refers to the vivid red hue created through special firing techniques. The surface develops soft textures and subtle variations in tone, embodying the aesthetics of rustic elegance (wabi). This tea bowl combines deep smoky-black glaze effects with warm red undertones, creating a striking visual contrast.

The Bowl (Chawan):
This bowl has a rounded form with slight asymmetry, a hallmark of Raku aesthetics. The surface features flowing red-and-black transitions, enhanced by the kiln’s firing atmosphere. The white seal mark on the side adds both authenticity and visual accent.

Dating and Artist:
Based on the box inscription and kiln mark, this tea bowl was produced in the late Showa to Heisei period (1970s–1990s). Works from Katsura Kiln were often made by disciples trained in the Kyoto Raku tradition.

Tea Ceremony Use:
Red Raku tea bowls are prized in tea gatherings (chanoyu) for their warmth in winter and their ability to enhance the vivid green of matcha. Their lightness and soft touch when held are highly valued by practitioners.

Expert’s Insight:
This Red Raku chawan from Katsura Kiln is a fine example of Kyoto’s continued devotion to the Raku tradition. Its smoky textures and subtle transitions between red and black glazes highlight the unpredictability of the firing process, a quality highly prized in tea ceramics. Collectors will appreciate not only the tactile charm of this bowl but also its cultural depth, representing over 400 years of Raku heritage.

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.