Kuro Raku Zuisho Matcha Bowl

Elevate your tea ceremony experience with the Kuroraku Zuisho Black Matcha Bowl, a masterful blend of tradition and artistry from Japan’s renowned ceramic heritage. Handcrafted with the meticulous techniques of Kyo-yaki and Kiyomizu-yaki, this exquisite black Raku ware chawan embodies the elegance and spiritual depth of Japanese tea culture. Whether you’re a seasoned tea enthusiast or a collector of fine ceramics, this matcha bowl offers a perfect union of functionality and aesthetic beauty.

Craftsmanship and Origin

The Kuroraku Zuisho Black Matcha Bowl is a testament to the time-honored Raku ware tradition, developed in Kyoto over 400 years ago under the guidance of tea master Sen no Rikyū and potter Chōjirō. The “Kuroraku” (black Raku) style features a striking matte-to-glossy black glaze, achieved through a low-temperature firing process unique to Raku pottery. This bowl is removed from the kiln at high heat, leaving distinctive scissor marks and irregular base textures, marks of authenticity celebrated as part of its wabi-sabi charm, where beauty lies in imperfection.

Crafted in the spirit of Kyo-yaki and Kiyomizu-yaki, styles synonymous with Kyoto’s millennia-long cultural legacy, this piece reflects the influence of legendary potters like Nonomura Ninsei and Ogata Kenzan. The bowl bears a “Gifu” stamp on its base, Gifu Prefecture’s Mino-yaki tradition, known for its rich ceramic history. This fusion of Kyoto’s refinement and Gifu’s expertise creates a chawan that bridges two of Japan’s most prestigious pottery regions.

Design and Features

• Glaze and Finish: The glossy black glaze offers a deep, reflective surface that contrasts beautifully with the vibrant green of matcha, enhancing the visual and meditative experience of the tea ceremony. Subtle imperfections in the glaze add to its rustic allure.
• Shape: Hand-molded with an organic, slightly irregular form, the bowl features a wide, shallow body (approximately 13.5 cm in diameter, though slight variations occur due to its handmade nature) designed to fit comfortably in the hands during preparation.
• Base Details: The base showcases concentric grooves and the unique scissor marks from its kiln extraction, a signature of Raku ware that tells the story of its creation. The “Gifu” stamp adds a layer of historical intrigue.
• Durability: Crafted from high-quality clay and finished with a protective glaze, this bowl is built to last with proper care, though its Raku construction requires gentle handling.

Cultural Significance

This matcha bowl is more than a vessel, it’s a cultural artifact rooted in the Japanese tea ceremony (chanoyu). The black color symbolizes tranquility and depth, aligning with the ceremony’s meditative purpose. Its wabi-sabi aesthetic, embracing imperfection and transience, invites users to connect with the natural world and the artisan’s touch. Perfect for pairing with premium matcha varieties like those from Ujiha (Ichi, Kotobuki, Kumo, Ame), this bowl enhances the ritual of preparing and sharing tea.

Care Instructions

To preserve the beauty and integrity of your Kuroraku Zuisho Black Matcha Bowl:

• Hand-wash gently with warm water and a soft cloth; avoid abrasive detergents.
• Do not use in microwaves or dishwashers, as the glaze and clay may crack.
• Season the bowl before first use by soaking it in lukewarm water for a few minutes to reduce staining from matcha.
• Store in a protective box or padded area to prevent chipping.
• During use, rotate the bowl to appreciate its design and marks, a traditional practice in tea ceremonies.

Ideal For

• Tea ceremony practitioners seeking an authentic Raku ware chawan.
• Collectors of Kyo-yaki, Kiyomizu-yaki, or Mino-yaki ceramics.
• Gift-givers looking for a unique, culturally rich present for tea lovers or art enthusiasts.

Why Choose This Matcha Bowl?

The Kuroraku Zuisho Black Matcha Bowl stands out as a piece of functional art, blending the heritage of Kyoto’s Kyo-yaki/Kiyomizu-yaki with Gifu’s Mino-yaki influence. Its handcrafted quality, striking black glaze, and historical significance make it a centerpiece for any tea collection. Pair it with your favorite matcha for a sensory journey that honors Japanese tradition.

Add this exceptional Kuroraku Zuisho Black Matcha Bowl to your cart today and bring the soul of Japan’s tea culture into your home!