Japanese Raku Tea Bowl, Lead-Free Glaze
Handbuilt by Waraku in Kyoto, this raku tea bowl embodies the quiet spontaneity of the raku tradition. Its deep black glaze pools across a softly irregular form, interrupted by subtle flashes of exposed clay that emerge through the firing process. Each bowl is removed from the kiln while still glowing hot, creating a surface that can never be precisely repeated.
Designed to be held in both hands, the bowl’s gentle asymmetry, rounded silhouette, and warm, unglazed foot invite a tactile connection with every use.
Kindly note, lead-free glaze was used for this bowl.
Dimensions: ⌀ 4.25" x H 3"
Handcrafted in Kyoto, Japan.
About Raku Studio Waraku: The kiln was established around 1830 in the Gion district of Kyoto. The original kiln name was Tanzakuya. The given name of the first master was Hitizaemon, but the name Tanzakuya came from Tanzaku-rou, a teahouse located just in front of the main gate of the Yasaka Shrine, where Hitizaemon was the proprietor.
In 1918, Admiral Heihachirou Togo visited the kiln and during his visit penned the characters for “Waraku.” Wa refers to harmony, raku refers to joy. The 4th Generation Master, Shohiti Kawasaki, was grateful for the honour bestowed by Admiral Togo and changed the name of the kiln to Raku Studio Waraku, which is still the name as the kiln reaches its 8th generation master.
Raku Studio Waraku is proud of its 180 years of tradition; the Kawasaki family is determined to preserve and continue the 400 year history of raku ceramics for future generations.
