Item Description 吉村宗楽 Yoshimura Soraku This is an authentic Japanese Raku-yaki (hand-formed earthenware) matcha tea bowl titled "Kinkaku-ji" (Golden Pavilion), crafted by Yoshimura Soraku in the tradition of Aka-Raku (red Raku) ware. The bowl exhibits the quintessential characteristics of hand-formed Raku pottery: a warm terracotta-red base tone dramatically contrasted by bold, dark charcoal-black fire markings distributed across the exterior — a natural result of the unique hikidashi (kiln-withdrawal) firing technique used in Raku production. The form is gently rounded and slightly irregular, embodying the wabi-sabi philosophy that defines the aesthetic of Japanese tea ceremony ceramics. The interior presents a smooth, warm reddish-brown surface ideal for whisking matcha, while the foot ring is cleanly trimmed. The unpretentious, organic shape and the striking interplay of red and black tones evoke the meditative atmosphere of the tea room. Named after the iconic Kinkaku-ji temple in Kyoto, this bowl carries a poetic resonance deeply rooted in Japanese cultural heritage. It is a fine example of Raku ware crafted for practical use in the Way of Tea (chado), equally suited for display as a collector's piece. Size Height: 8.5 cm Width: 12 cm Depth: 12 cm Weight 293 g Condition The bowl is in good overall condition with only minor signs of use, consistent with a privately stored item; no significant chips, cracks, or repairs are noted. Artist Profile 吉村宗楽 Yoshimura Soraku is a Kyoto-based ceramicist working in the tradition of Raku-yaki, one of Japan's most venerated ceramic styles with a history of over 400 years. Raku ware originated in Kyoto during the Momoyama period (16th century) and has long been considered the foremost tea bowl ware in Japanese tea ceremony culture, reflected in the saying "Ichi-Raku, Ni-Hagi, San-Karatsu" (First Raku, Second Hagi, Third Karatsu). Employing the characteristic tezukune (hand-building) and hikidashi (withdrawal firing) methods, Yoshimura Soraku produces bowls with uniquely expressive natural surfaces that cannot be replicated, making each piece a truly one-of-a-kind work of art. 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.