Oribe Earthen Tide Pool Matcha Bowl MAKER_Sourakuan Kiln characteristic of Mikawachi ware

characteristic of Mikawachi ware

the bowl is pulled from the kiln at peak temperature and rapidly cooled

adorned with delicate shippo (seven treasures) patterns

and nimono (simmered food)

A single craftsman uses their skills to assemble the bamboo strips one by one

Oribe Earthen Tide Pool Matcha Bowl MAKER_Sourakuan Kiln characteristic of Mikawachi wareIn this work, Iga ware artist Fukushima Kazuhiro expresses elemental nature in a matcha bowl. The earthy, aerated texture of the clay, combined with the glossy glaze, evokes wet, crumbly sand when held between the palms. Peering inside reveals a brilliant, glassy blue, like a tide pool nestled within a hidden cove. The wildness of clay is unleashed yet tightly controlled, creating a changeable landscape. Four types of glaze have been applied across