– Yamane Seigan (b. 1952), acclaimed Hagi potter known for his signature "Seigan Blue" glaze – Luminous namako (sea cucumber) blue glaze over warm Hagi clay, with natural crackling and depth – Contemporary tea bowl for matcha service, everyday meditation, or display as sculptural ceramic art Summary: This blue-glazed tea bowl by Yamane Seigan exemplifies the vitality of contemporary Hagi ware. Since establishing his Kōsaian kiln in 1990, Yamane has become celebrated for his experimental approach to traditional Hagi techniques, particularly his distinctive blue glazes. This chawan features a rich namako (sea cucumber) glaze—pools of deep cobalt and sky blue flowing over the warm, porous Hagi clay body. The glaze's natural crackling (kannyu) and subtle variations speak to the unpredictability of the kiln, a hallmark of Hagi aesthetics. In excellent condition, this piece appeals to tea ceremony practitioners and collectors seeking living tradition rather than museum relics. Not every tea bowl asks to be noticed. Some whisper. This chawan by Yamane Seigan speaks in a quiet, confident voice—blue as evening sea, tactile as driftwood, entirely its own. Yamane Seigan was born in 1952 and came to ceramics through an unconventional path: self-education. In 1987, he began experimenting with clay, glazes, and the potter's wheel, driven by curiosity rather than formal training. By 1990, he had established his Kōsaian kiln in Hagi, Yamaguchi Prefecture, a region synonymous with some of Japan's most revered pottery. Hagi ware has been cherished since the sixteenth century, particularly by tea masters who valued its warm, porous clay and subtle, often pastel glazes. Yamane honoured this legacy but refused to be constrained by it. His signature achievement—what collectors now call "Seigan Blue"—represents a bold departure: luminous cobalt and turquoise glazes that transform the earthy Hagi aesthetic into something altogether more electric. This tea bowl showcases that trademark blue, applied as a namako (sea cucumber) glaze. The name refers to the mottled, organic appearance of the glaze as it breaks and pools during firing, creating irregular patterns reminiscent of the sea creature's spotted skin. Here, the glaze cascades across the bowl's surface in shades ranging from deep navy to pale sky blue, interrupted by natural crackling (kannyu)—fine fissures that develop as the glaze cools and contracts. These cracks will deepen and darken over time with tea staining, a phenomenon prized in Japanese tea culture as nurturing the bowl (chawan wo sodateru). It's a partnership between maker, object, and user. Hagi ware occupies a unique position in Japanese ceramics. It's one of the "Three Great Kilns" of tea ware (alongside Raku and Karatsu), historically favoured for its soft, absorbent clay that enhances the flavour of matcha. The porous body also encourages the development of a rich patina over years of use—what enthusiasts call the "seven transformations" (nanabake). Yamane's work extends this tradition into the present day. His pieces appear regularly at Hagi Ware Festivals, and his reputation has grown steadily among international collectors who appreciate the intersection of heritage and individual voice. This chawan is not merely functional; it's sculptural. The blue glaze catches light, shifting in tone depending on the angle and illumination. The foot (kōdai) is cleanly cut, the walls pleasingly irregular—evidence of hand-throwing rather than mechanical production. It fits comfortably in the hands, inviting use. In a contemporary interior, it serves equally well as a vessel for preparing matcha or as a standalone objet, displayed where its colour and texture can be appreciated. Blue ceramics have always paired beautifully with natural wood, white linen, and pale stone—materials that allow the glaze to sing. Shipping & Handling We ship worldwide via DHL or EMS with full insurance and tracking. Professional packing ensures safe arrival; combined shipping available for multiple wins. Local customs duties are the buyer's responsibility. Seller Guarantee We specialise in authentic Japanese ceramics and guarantee this piece's authenticity. Questions welcome – we reply within 24 hours. 1201