This is a masterfully crafted Tenmoku chawan (天目茶碗) by the renowned Japanese ceramic artist Toshihiko Izutsu (井筒敏彦). The bowl is a fine example of contemporary Tenmoku ware, deeply rooted in the aesthetics of traditional Japanese and Chinese ceramics, yet with a distinct modern sensitivity. It features an elegant wide-flared shape that tapers gracefully to a small, sturdy foot — a form both visually balanced and practical for tea ceremony use. What makes this piece particularly exceptional is its lustrous glaze and surface texture. The interior is adorned with a mesmerizing oil-spot (yuteki) pattern that subtly transitions from deep brown to silvery highlights, achieved through meticulous kiln control and a highly refined glaze formula. At the center, a unique abstract silhouette emerges — reminiscent of a dragon in motion — formed naturally by the interplay of glaze crystallization and firing dynamics. This effect, unrepeatable and spontaneous, exemplifies the Japanese notion of “一期一会” (ichigo ichie – one time, one meeting). The exterior continues this visual poetry, with finely crackled textures in hues of iron, copper, and ash-gray. These effects evoke the passage of time and the beauty of imperfection, capturing the spirit of wabi-sabi. The base is left unglazed, exposing the fine-grained, reddish-brown clay body, and bears the carved signature of the artist. This chawan is not merely a vessel, but a contemplative object — a perfect harmony of nature, fire, and human intent. Whether used in a traditional chanoyu (tea ceremony) or appreciated as a display piece, it invites quiet reflection and admiration. About Tenmoku (天目) The term Tenmoku refers to a traditional ceramic glazing technique originally developed in China, specifically at the Jian Kiln in southern China during the 12th and 13th centuries. The technique gained prominence for its unique glaze effects that often feature sparkling droplets or patterns resembling the cosmos, commonly known as oil-spot or "Yuteki Tenmoku." These patterns result from natural chemical reactions in the kiln during firing, giving each piece a distinctive and irreplaceable appearance. The glaze typically has a lustrous black or dark brown color with metallic, iridescent spots that resemble tiny oil droplets or starry skies. The technique involves applying an iron-rich glaze that, depending on the firing conditions, creates a range of surface effects, often with shimmering metallic highlights or crystalline patterns. Because of its difficulty and the unpredictable nature of firing results, each Tenmoku piece is considered unique and is highly valued for capturing the spirit of nature and the aesthetics of wabi-sabi (the beauty of imperfection and transience). About Toshihiko Izutsu (井筒敏彦) Toshihiko Izutsu is a Japanese ceramic artist born in 1963 in Kyoto. He graduated from the ceramics course at Kyoto Municipal Todaya Art and Craft High School in 1981, where his graduation work won the Kyoto City Board of Education Superintendent Award. He then completed the forming course at Kyoto Prefectural Ceramic Technology Training School in 1982. Izutsu honed his craft through apprenticeship in Kameoka, Kyoto Prefecture, and founded his own kiln named Tsukiyomi-gama in Kameoka in 1992, later relocating it to Uzumasa, Kyoto in 1999. Izutsu is especially known for his distinctive work with Tenmoku glaze ceramics, a style often associated with cosmic or universe motifs. He has developed his own unique approach through experimenting with glaze formulas and incorporating motifs such as dragons and cranes, aiming to express a cosmic or "still unseen universe" theme. His solo exhibitions have focused on tea bowls, flower vases, and tableware, showcasing his Tenmoku ceramics. Izutsu has received multiple awards in public exhibitions and maintains an active exhibition presence mainly around Kyoto, highlighting his reputation and artistic contributions. Shipping / Policy Carefully packaged and shipped from Japan by Japan Post or DHL with tracking. If you purchase multiple items, combined shipping is available. Please contact us if needed. Import duties, VAT (or equivalent consumption tax), and any other fees are the responsibility of the buyer. Guarantee Our shop is a licensed antiques dealer in Japan. We guarantee the authenticity of this work.