Item Description This is an exquisite Aka-raku (red raku) chawan (tea bowl) by Yoshimura Soraku, a distinguished Kyo-yaki artist affiliated with the prestigious Raku family tradition. The piece bears the artist's signature "Soraku" and features the Raku family seal, establishing its authentic lineage within one of Japan's most revered ceramic traditions. Raku ware represents one of the pinnacles of Japanese tea ceremony ceramics, famously celebrated in the saying "Ichi-Raku, Ni-Hagi, San-Karatsu" (First Raku, Second Hagi, Third Karatsu). This ranking reflects the profound respect for Raku ware among tea practitioners and collectors. The technique originated in the Tensho period (1573-1592) when the first-generation Raku master Chojiro created this unique style under the aesthetic guidance of the legendary tea master Sen no Rikyu. This Aka-raku bowl showcases the warm, reddish-orange glaze characteristic of red Raku ware. The soft, expressive surface reveals the hand-molded (tezukune) forming technique and low-temperature firing process that define authentic Raku pottery. The gentle, organic form embodies the wabi-sabi aesthetic central to the Japanese tea ceremony, where imperfection and simplicity are valued as expressions of profound beauty. The bowl comes with its original wooden box (tomobako) inscribed "Soraku-zo" (made by Soraku), confirming its authenticity and proper provenance. The presence of the Raku family seal further validates its connection to this esteemed lineage. This piece represents not merely a functional tea bowl but a tangible connection to centuries of Japanese ceramic mastery and tea culture philosophy. Its soft, expressive character invites contemplation and enhances the meditative experience of the tea ceremony. Size Height: 8.0 cm Diameter (rim): 12.0 cm Foot diameter: 0.6 cm Weight 330 g Condition The bowl is in excellent, unused condition with no cracks, chips, or repairs. The piece comes with its original wooden storage box in good condition. Artist Profile Yoshimura Soraku is a Kyo-yaki (Kyoto pottery) artist working within the Raku family tradition, as evidenced by the Raku family seal on this piece. The Raku family tradition, established in the late 16th century, represents one of the most important lineages in Japanese ceramic art. The family has maintained the original techniques of hand-forming and low-temperature firing for over 450 years, producing tea bowls that embody the wabi-sabi aesthetic philosophy central to the Japanese tea ceremony. Raku ware's technical roots trace to Chinese sancai pottery of the Ming dynasty, brought to Japan by Chojiro's father, Ameya, a Chinese artisan. The second-generation Raku master Jokei received the "Raku" seal from Toyotomi Hideyoshi, establishing the family name and lineage that continues today. Artists affiliated with or trained in the Raku tradition, such as Yoshimura Soraku, carry forward these time-honored techniques while expressing their individual artistic voice within this prestigious framework. NOITICE: The photos may show flowers, plants, pedestals, etc. as examples of decorations and interior design for illustrative purposes, but please note that these are not included in the product. The lot will be carefully packaged and sent by DHL , FedEx or Japan Post 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 us and it cost more double shipping fee for reshipping. We do appreciate for your kind cooperation.