Suisai Tenmoku Tea Bowl

From the rim where the red clay peeks through, the glaze gradually shifts along the delicate combed patterns to vibrant hues of purple and blue, and a generous amount of turquoise glaze settling around the foot of the bowl, or kodai. The transitions in color within a single bowl evoke the serene flow of a beautiful stream or the changing of the four seasons. The pool of glaze in the center, resembling a lake, is equally captivating. This tea bowl exudes a fresh and elegant aura, yet also imparts a sense of warmth.

This work, “Suisai Tenmoku Tea Bowl,” is crafted by Toshinori Munakata, a ceramic artist who strives every day to refine his skills as a successor to the Munakata-gama kiln, which was established in 1719 in the home of Aizu-Hongo ware. The local Matoba clay, sourced from Mt. Hakuho, is key to achieving this unique texture. On top of that, by applying and firing two layers of glaze, he achieves a complex gradation of colors.

From this piece reflecting the beauty of Aizu’s nature, one can discern Toshinori’s deep affection for Aizu, where he was born and raised, and which lies at the core of his work.