diameter: 4.72inches (12cm) height: 2.95inches (7.5cm), standard Matcha bowl size
Kyo Yaki (Kyoto Style)
Made by Zenshoh Yamaoka at Zenshoh Kiln

RINPA is one of the major historical schools of Japanese painting, which flourished in the 17th century in Kyoto. "RIN" means the beautiful beads, and "PA" means school, so all works in RINPA are focusing on colorful and elegant expression. RINPA is also known as one of the arts which express more unique Japanese sensitivity in Japanese modern art.

We, Hibiki-an have collaborated with Zenshoh Yamaoka, who is the leading expert of paintings derived from masterpieces in the Middle Ages and acclaimed Kyo Yaki artisan, to release a series of Matcha bowls featuring RINPA paintings. Zenshoh Yamaoka chose KOHAKU BAI ZU. In the real painting, most parts of the plum tree are not shown. However, Zenshoh Yamaoka recreated and completed the painting on this bowl with his imagination.

Kohrin Ogata (1658 - 1716) was born into a family of KIMONO fabric dealers in Kyoto. He was influenced by the beauty of lacquers and pottery made by Kouetsu Honami, and by the paintings of Soutatu Tawaraya, especially his unique composition and brush strokes. Kohrin Ogata learned how to paint by replicating the works of these master artisans.

KOHAKU BAI means red and white color UME plum, which blooms in late winter and adds beautiful colors to the Japanese winter snow. The red and white colors of the plum tree are facing each other across the river, gracefully blooming. While the tree branches are painted angular and sharp, the UME plums are aimless dots that have the plump texture of paint, which balances out the sharpness of the trees.

One of the key RINPA techniques, called TARASHIKOMI is used on the trunk and branches. TARASHIKOMI is when colors are dripped into not-fully dried ink. The coincidental effect of the blur makes unique and unforeseeable coloring. Different from folding screen and hanging scroll, it is very difficult to use its technique on a Matcha bowl, but its faithful reproduction of Kohrin’s work expresses realistic image of plum trees. The technically painted trunk and branches with the use of golden color have a texture close to the appearance of the genuine plum trees.

Contrasts of nature are well described on this Matcha bowl with a graceful manner. Zenshoh Yamaoka’s faithful reproduction, marked by his flowing brush techniques, evokes a magnificent atmosphere. We are certain that this bowl will enrich your green moment.

Specially packaged in a carton box..
Lead-free. Made in Japan.