Few ceramics capture the soul of Japanese tea culture quite like this extraordinary tenmoku tea bowl by Kaga Zuizan, a master whose works bridge traditional Banko pottery with contemporary artistic expression. The mesmerising kiln transmutation glaze creates an otherworldly surface that shifts between deep amber and mysterious bronze, each viewing angle revealing new depths and subtle colour variations that speak to centuries of Japanese ceramic mastery. Created at the renowned Banko kilns of Mie Prefecture, this 10.5cm diameter tea bowl represents the pinnacle of contemporary Japanese ceramics. Kaga Zuizan's reputation for exceptional glaze work has made his pieces highly sought after by tea ceremony practitioners and collectors worldwide. The tenmoku style, originally developed during China's Song Dynasty and perfected by Japanese potters, creates these distinctive metallic lustres through carefully controlled iron-rich glazes and precise firing temperatures. The kiln transmutation effect visible on this bowl occurs only under specific atmospheric conditions during firing, making each piece unique and unrepeatable. Master potters spend decades learning to create these effects, which require intimate knowledge of clay bodies, glaze chemistry, and kiln behaviour. This particular bowl showcases the remarkable bronze-to-amber gradations that define exceptional tenmoku work, with the metallic sheen creating an almost liquid appearance across the interior surface. Banko ware has been celebrated since the 18th century for its technical excellence and artistic innovation. The included original wooden box (tomobako) with the artist's signature and seal confirms authenticity and significantly enhances the piece's provenance and value. Such documentation is essential for serious collectors and ensures the bowl's place in Japanese ceramic lineage. In European settings, this bowl transcends its functional origins to become pure sculpture. The deep, lustrous surface creates stunning visual interest whether displayed in contemporary minimalist spaces or traditional interiors. The substantial feel and perfect proportions make it equally suitable for actual tea ceremony use or artistic appreciation, bringing authentic Japanese aesthetic philosophy into modern homes. Condition inspection reveals this bowl to be in excellent preservation with only minor signs of gentle handling. The glaze remains vibrant and complete, with no chips, cracks, or structural issues. Some light surface marks are barely perceptible and entirely consistent with careful use. The metallic lustre remains fully intact, continuing to shift and shimmer as intended by the master potter. The Smithsonian's Freer and Sackler Galleries house significant collections of tenmoku ceramics, while recent Sotheby's auctions have seen comparable Banko tenmoku pieces achieving substantial prices among international collectors. This represents both artistic achievement and sound collecting investment. For connoisseurs who appreciate the intersection of technical mastery and artistic vision, this bowl offers an opportunity to own a contemporary masterpiece rooted in centuries of tradition. Its profound beauty rewards both casual appreciation and deep contemplation. 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.