A Black Raku Tea Bowl by Seiraku – The Quiet Elegance of Kyoto Tea Ceramics This distinctive Japanese matcha tea bowl (chawan) is a black Raku-style ceramic bearing the maker's name Seiraku (清楽) on its accompanying wooden box. The bowl is finished in a deep, glossy black glaze, enriched by subtle variations of charcoal and dark brown. Its surface reveals fine irregular textures and tiny natural pits, giving the piece a lively appearance despite its restrained color. A particularly attractive feature is the irregular silver-white glaze line running across part of the exterior, creating a striking contrast against the dark surface. This expressive detail resembles a distant mountain ridge or a fleeting streak of light across a night landscape. The gently uneven rim and rounded body contribute to its handmade character. Inside, the dark glaze catches the light beautifully, revealing delicate variations in texture and tone. The pale exposed foot provides a pleasing contrast to the richly glazed body. About Raku Ware and the Artist The wooden box bears the signature Seiraku, identifying the maker associated with this tea bowl. Further biographical details about the artist have not been reliably established. Raku pottery developed in Kyoto during the late 16th century and became closely associated with the tea master Sen no Rikyū and the Japanese tea ceremony. Unlike highly decorated ceramics, traditional black Raku bowls emphasize the relationship between form, texture and the experience of holding a bowl of tea. Their quiet simplicity reflects the Japanese aesthetic of wabi-sabi, celebrating natural irregularity and understated beauty. Wooden Box Accompanied by an inscribed wooden storage box bearing the designation Kuro Raku Matchawan (black Raku tea bowl) and the maker's signature and seal. Dimensions Diameter: approximately 11–12 cm Height: approximately 8 cm Condition Please examine the photographs carefully for details of the glaze, rim, foot, ceramic seal and wooden box. Shipping Carefully packed with protective materials and securely shipped from Japan with tracking.