diameter: 4.72inch (12cm) height: 2.95inch (7.5cm), standard Matcha bowl size
Traditional Kyo-Yaki (Kyoto Style)
Made by Jihyoue Katoh at Jihyoue Kiln

This Matcha bowl is a refined and elaborate work. Multiple glazes are applied to both the interior and exterior, and their flowing patterns create remarkable beauty. In fact, three layers of glaze are carefully built up, each contributing depth and complexity. The unique contrast between the glazes gives the bowl a fantastic and mysterious aura. With its balanced shape and graceful atmosphere, this Matcha bowl possesses a quiet elegance and sublime presence.

YU means glaze, RYU means flow, and SAI means decoration in Japanese. As the name of this bowl suggests, multiple glazes are layered on the Matcha bowl. The lower layer has a strong base color, while the upper layers appear milky and translucent. These glazes blend naturally across the surface, creating soft gradations of color. The flow of the upper glaze is not accidental, but carefully anticipated, allowing it to decorate the bowl with a sense of natural harmony.

Tremendous skill is required to create the controlled flow of glaze both inside and outside the bowl. The upper glaze, applied around the rim, melts and begins to flow freely during firing in the kiln, depending on the temperature inside. The extent and direction of this flow are precisely calculated in advance. Mr. Jihyoue Katoh carefully monitors the kiln temperature and gradually lowers it to stop the movement of the glaze at just the right moment, preserving the delicate contrast between the layers.

Not only the temperature but also the placement of the bowl in the kiln and the thickness of the glaze around the rim affect the speed of the glaze flow. The temperature differs depending on where the bowl is positioned, and thicker glaze flows more slowly. With his extensive experience and refined technique, Mr. Jihyoue Katoh carefully controls these factors to create highly delicate works, each one unique and impossible to reproduce exactly.

Along the flowing edge of the glaze, a soft opalescent glow emerges, reminiscent of the gentle mist of early morning. This subtle, luminous color, known as ASAGIRI, adds depth and a quiet sense of mystery to the bowl, like a veil of morning haze drifting across the landscape.

The graceful flow of the glaze and the subtle contrast between the layers create a serene and elegant atmosphere. Considering the extraordinary craftsmanship and effort involved, this bowl offers remarkable artistic value. Each piece has its own individual expression, and it is hoped that you will one day find a Matcha bowl that becomes your most cherished companion, enriching your moments of enjoying green tea.

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 craftsman. There are natural variations in each piece.)