Shorakugama - Sasaki Shoraku (佐々木昭楽) - 茶碗 - 粘土

Authentic Raku Ware "Kakewake" Black Tea Bowl by Sasaki Shoraku III, w/ Signed Box

1. Description
【Masterful Creation from Kyoto: A Bold Artistic Expression】
This is a stunning "Kakewake" (split-glaze technique) Black Raku tea bowl (Chawan) crafted by the renowned Sasaki Shoraku III, a prominent figure in Kyoto’s Raku ceramic scene. The defining characteristic of this piece is its dynamic composition, seamlessly merging two contrasting textures into a single vessel.

Contrasting Textures: Half of the bowl is adorned with a rugged, beige "Kakewake" glaze, evoking the raw, powerful texture of weathered rock or bark. In sharp contrast, the other half is finished in a deep, lustrous Black Raku glaze (Kuro-Raku), embodying the quiet elegance and soft tactile quality central to the "Wabi-Sabi" aesthetic.

Form and Function: The interior is coated in a smooth black glaze, designed to beautifully accentuate the vibrant green of powdered matcha tea. Its organic, hand-molded form (te-zukune) ensures a perfect, comforting fit in the palms of the hands.

Proof of Authenticity: The underside of the foot (Koudai) features the clearly impressed "Shoraku" seal within a distinct ochre-colored glaze. The piece is accompanied by its original, artist-signed paulownia wooden box (Tomobako) and a protective yellow wrapping cloth.

【About the Artist: Sasaki Shoraku III】
The Sasaki Shoraku lineage has been a cornerstone of Kyoto Raku ware since its founding in 1905 near the Kiyomizu-dera Temple. Sasaki Shoraku III (born Teruo Sasaki in 1944) apprenticed under his father and succeeded the title in 1983.

Legacy: He is widely recognized as a premier master of "Utsushi" (recreations of historic masterpieces), meticulously recreating the legendary works of Chojiro and Hon’ami Koetsu.

Prestige: Maintaining deep ties with the Daitoku-ji Temple—the spiritual heart of the Japanese tea ceremony—his work is highly trusted and respected by tea masters and collectors across Japan and internationally.

2. Size & Condition
Dimensions (Approx.): Diameter 11.5 cm / Height 8.5 cm

Condition: Excellent condition. No chips, cracks, or signs of repair. A pristine collector's item.

3. Shipping & Packaging
Shipping Method: Ships via Japan Post (EMS/International Parcel) with a tracking number provided. We ensure professional handling for a safe and reliable delivery.

Eco-friendly Packaging: The item will be securely packed with ample cushioning. In our commitment to environmental sustainability, we utilize recycled materials for outer boxes and packaging. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation in our efforts to reduce waste and protect the planet.