Rekitei Kawamoto 河本礫亭 (1894-1975) - 茶碗 - 瓷 - 日本茶碗

Blue and White Porcelain Tea Bowl — A serene harmony of cobalt and white - Rekitei Kawamoto 河本礫亭 (1894-1975) - Japan - Shōwa period (1926-1989)

This is a beautiful porcelain tea bowl crafted by Rekitei Kawamoto, a Japanese ceramic artist known for his refined blue-and-white porcelain works.
The bowl features a delicate iris flower motif painted in white against a vibrant cobalt-blue background, symbolizing elegance and purity in Japanese art.
The rim is accented with a fine gold line, adding a touch of sophistication.
 The interior is decorated with a finely detailed geometric pattern in blue underglaze, showcasing the artist’s exceptional precision and aesthetic sense.
The base bears the artist’s signature, and the piece is accompanied by its original signed tomobako (wooden box) and cloth with the artist’s seal, confirming its authenticity.
This tea bowl harmoniously combines traditional Japanese porcelain artistry with a serene, modern sensibility—ideal for collectors of fine ceramics and tea ceremony enthusiasts alike.


About Rekitei Kawamoto

Rekitei Kawamoto (born September 17, 1894, in the Sobo-machi district of Seto City; real name Shunji) was a distinguished ceramic artist and blue-and-white porcelain painter who was active from the Taisho through the Showa periods. Born into a family of potters that had operated since his grandfather Yoneshiro, he became involved in the family business from an early age and began studying underglaze blue techniques under his father, Zenshiro, at the age of 23.



In 1914, he won the top prize at a ceramics competition, establishing his reputation nationwide. In 1915, he was awarded the Gold Prize at the Peace Exposition (Taisho Expo) held in Tokyo, further enhancing his recognition. From that point onward, Kawamoto expanded his activities overseas, energetically exhibiting at many world's fairs and international expositions—including the Paris Exposition (1925), the Chicago World’s Fair (1933), and the San Francisco World’s Fair (1939)—garnering numerous awards. While upholding the traditions of Seto ware, his outstanding blue-and-white techniques and artistry were highly acclaimed on the world stage. His successes at these exhibitions also contributed to raising the international status of Japanese ceramics.



In 1924, he joined “Toukinkai,” Seto’s first group of professional ceramic artists. After World War II, he was commissioned by the Japanese government to produce several large decorative jars, one of which was presented to U.S. President Truman as a diplomatic gift. He also produced official works such as commemorative sake cups for the wedding of the Crown Prince (now Emperor Emeritus) in 1959, and commemorative pieces for various distinguished ceremonies. In 1952, Kawamoto was honored with the Cultural Contribution Award from the Governor of Aichi Prefecture, received the Medal with Blue Ribbon in 1960, and was recognized in 1972 as a Living Intangible Cultural Property of Aichi Prefecture for his excellence in blue-and-white porcelain. He passed away on January 10, 1975.


Style & Characteristics

Rekitei Kawamoto is best known for his blue-and-white porcelain, marked by refined brushwork and sophisticated composition. His works range from lidded teacups and vases to plates and various daily-use items, all distinguished by their meticulous underglaze blue painting. In addition to traditional Japanese motifs, Kawamoto often incorporated realistic and innovative designs, earning high acclaim at both domestic and international expositions. His artistry contributed not only to advancing the culture of Seto porcelain but also to ushering in new directions for modern Japanese ceramic art. Balancing deep respect for tradition with originality, his ceramic works are widely recognized for their technical mastery and elegant beauty.

Blue and White Porcelain Tea Bowl — A serene harmony of cobalt and white