TENMOKU FUKURIN (handcrafted Matcha Bowl)

diameter: 4.72inch (12cm) height: 2.95inch (7.5cm), standard matcha bowl size
Traditional Kyo-Yaki (Kyoto Style)
Made by Kohgiku Yamaoka in Kohgiku Kiln

This Matcha bowl looks very simple, but it requires great effort and technique to create. Black glaze called TENMOKU YU coats this earthenware color Matcha bowl. The flow of TENMOKU glaze is well reflected on this bowl, and creates a pattern as though we are looking at stars in the night sky. Around the rim is a metal ring called a FUKURIN, which further enhances the bowl's prestige.

This pattern is known as YUTEKI which means oil droplet. TENMOKU YU glaze is an iron glaze traditionally known for its impenetrable and elusive nature. In ancient times, it was said that if an artisan tried to pursue TENMOKU glaze, they would become insolvent. It was developed more than 800 years ago, and many artisans pursed its technique, but few were successful. Because TENMOKU glaze was so difficult to create, it was a great honor for tea masters to acquire such precious earthenware at that time.

Kohgiku Yamaoka, the creator of this Matcha bowl, is famous for his outstanding skills and prominent techniques in glazing.

This Matcha bowl features a FUKURIN. Originally developed to protect the rim of the Matcha bowl, FUKURIN have taken on a more decorative role over time. To create this FUKURIN, the artisan Kohgiku Yamaoka carefully wraps a shiny silver-plated brass ring along the rim of the Matcha bowl. This method is very labor intensive. FUKURIN are also found in the famous TENMOKU Chawan of the past and are believed to have been developed in Japan.

The shape is one of the traditional forms called TENMOKU Chawan. A part of the rim is uniquely hollowed in a horizontal form in the traditional TENMOKU style. The technique called TSUCHIMISE, which means "show clay" in Japanese, is also used for the base.

The size is just a little smaller than the standard Matcha bowl size and therefore produces a delicate and graceful atmosphere. The appearance is captivating, just like a dark night sky filled with stars.
This bowl is well planned and designed, though it looks quite simple at first glance, since its form and size also fit into both hands when drinking Matcha. The attractive black color pairs beautifully with the refined green color of Matcha. You will enjoy the aesthetic and unique atmosphere and supreme green tea moment with this TENMOKU FUKURIN Matcha bowl.

Specially packaged in a carton box.
Lead-free. Made in Japan.
(Please note that each piece is unique due to the techniques employed by the artisan. There are natural variations in each piece.)