Item Description: This is an authentic pair of tea bowls (meoto chawan) created by the 13th generation Yokoishi Gagyu, master of Utsutsugawa-yaki (Genkawagaki). This set includes both larger and smaller bowls, traditionally used by couples in Japanese tea ceremony and daily tea drinking. The pieces showcase the distinctive brushwork technique that defines this legendary ceramic style. Utsutsugawa-yaki emerged in 1691 during the Genroku era in Isahaya domain and was celebrated for its exceptional artistic expression, earning praise as "Ninsai of Kyoto, Genkawa of the West." However, this magnificent pottery mysteriously disappeared after only half a century, leaving behind only a handful of pieces that became legendary treasures. For over 200 years, countless artisans attempted to recreate the lost techniques, but all efforts failed. The 12th generation Yokoishi Gagyu finally unlocked the secrets of this phantom pottery, and the 13th generation Yokoishi Gagyu brothers perfected the revival. The key technique involves intricate brushwork and raised decorative methods applied to wet, unfired clay - a process that takes five times longer than conventional porcelain production. This painstaking method enables the spatial depth and dimensional expression that makes Utsutsugawa-yaki unique. The 13th generation Yokoishi Gagyu (1925-) was born as the eldest son of the 12th generation in Sasebo City. After apprenticing under his father and graduating from Arita Technical High School in 1942, he assumed the name in 1961. He was designated as a holder of Intangible Cultural Property and became a regular member of the Japan Kogei Association. His elegant style, which combines traditional techniques with contemporary sensibility, has earned him numerous accolades including recognition as a Master of Traditional Crafts. The bowls come in their original signed wooden box (tomobako) and show some signs of age-appropriate wear, making them authentic examples of this revived traditional craft. Size Large bowl: Width 7.5 × 7.5 cm, Height 9 cm Small bowl: Width 6.5 × 6.5 cm, Height 8 cm Condition Good condition with minor signs of age and use consistent with vintage pottery. Artist Profile Yokoishi Gagyu is a hereditary title passed down through generations at Gagyu Kiln, which was established approximately 400 years ago in Kihara Sarayama. The 13th generation Yokoishi Gagyu was born in 1925 as the eldest son of the 12th generation in Sasebo City. He began his apprenticeship under his father in 1939 and graduated from Arita Technical High School in 1942. The 13th generation assumed the Yokoishi Gagyu name in 1961 and dedicated his life to perfecting the revival of Utsutsugawa-yaki, the legendary pottery that had vanished in the 18th century. In 1975, he was designated as a holder of Intangible Cultural Property, and in 1982, he became a regular member of the Japan Kogei Association. His achievements include numerous honors such as the Education Merit Award from the Governor in 1989, recognition as a Master of Traditional Crafts in 1996, and the Order of the Sacred Treasure in 1997. Working alongside his brother, the 13th generation perfected the revival techniques pioneered by their father, the 12th generation. Their work involves applying delicate brushwork decoration to wet clay - a process requiring five times more effort than conventional porcelain but essential for achieving the distinctive spatial and dimensional qualities of authentic Utsutsugawa-yaki. The 13th generation's elegant style, which honors ancient traditions while expressing contemporary artistic vision, has earned him recognition as one of Japan's leading ceramic masters. NOITICE: The lot will be carefully packaged and sent by Japan Post, DHL or FedEx depend on the situation. It takes about 3 weeks to receive normally. Import duties, taxes, and charges are not included in the item price or shipping cost. These charges are the buyer's responsibility. Sometimes Customes or delivery company in your country contact you for Customs clearance via phone or email. Please make sure that you could answer the phone. If you don't, the parcel will return to me and it cost more double shipping fee for reshipping. I appreciate your cooperation.