Chawan Shigaraki Yaki S-204 – Kyuubei Sagara

This ‘Shigaraki-Yaki’ Matcha Chawan was hand crafted by Artisan Kyuubei Sagara. It was produced at his own ‘Kayano’ wood fired kiln in Shigaraki, which he only fires 3 or 4 times each year.

His philosophy is to make ceramic wares that are functional as much as beautiful. Many peers choose form and finish over practicality, but he always keeps the end user in mind when crafting. That makes for pieces that sit comfortably in the hand, and that can be used on a daily basis.

Shigaraki ware dates back to the 12th century and the Shigaraki kiln is recognised as one of the ‘Six Old Kilns’ in Japan. Shigaraki town is located in Southern Shiga Prefecture, close to the borders of Kyoto and Nara, and neighbours the Uji tea growing region.

**This particular Chawan has a small hole in the surface where a stone (which is part of the clay mixture) has come loose during a process called “ishihaze”. Ishihaze or “stone explosion” is a purposeful technique where small stones in the surface expand during firing in the kiln, leaving interesting marks that add character to the bowl. This is not unusual for this type of pottery and not a defect, but we want to make it apparent (please see last picture).

**Please note: this style of pottery is very organic and features rough contours, irregularities, and artefacts resulting from being baked in a wood fired kiln. This is the nature and appeal of this type of pottery.

Size (Approx.): Diameter 148mm x Height 64mm

Boxed: Yes (cardboard)