Japanese Vintage, Seto Karatsu Hira Chawan, Whale Skin Shino Tea Bowl | Ceramic | H3.1×W4.9in

A Taisho-period ceramic example by Yamaguchi Jotetsu presents a Japanese matcha tea bowl with white Shino-like feldspar glaze, distinctive black-mouthed rim, and glaze crazing that echoes whale-skin "Kawa Kujura" decoration. Handcrafted in the Taisho period and signed, this authentic chawan measures H3.1×W4.9 inches (H8×12.5cm), weighs 232g, and comes boxed with a kanji-signed wooden tomobako. The round, deep hira chawan form suits seasonal use, especially winter tea ceremonies, while the deliberate unpainted triangular interior accent reflects traditional artisan pottery aesthetics and collectible ceramics appeal. Ideal for a tea ceremony set or displayed as an authentic Japanese art piece in curated collections.

Details

This ceramic tea bowl is a Seto–Karatsu type hira chawan notable for a feldspar-heavy white glaze that resembles Shino ware. The overall surface shows deliberate glaze crazing and a black glaze at the mouth, hallmarks of the style described as whale skin, or Kawa Kujura. The triangular unglazed mark on the interior is left intentionally to create visual contrast and focal interest during preparation and drinking of matcha.

Artist and provenance

Signed by Yamaguchi Jotetsu (山口錠鉄), the piece dates to slightly after the Edo period into Taisho, reflecting a historic influence while retaining a later production date. The supplied kanji-signed wooden tomobako documents the maker and supports the bowl’s collectible ceramics status for collectors of Japanese art and traditional teaware.

Use and care

As an authentic chawan suitable for tea ceremony use, this matcha bowl functions well in a tea ceremony set for preparing and whisking matcha. Clean gently by hand with warm water; avoid harsh detergents or sudden temperature changes to preserve the shino glazed bowl surface and tomobako. Displaying the bowl requires only dusting and occasional gentle polishing of the box exterior; no restoration is indicated as the item is in very good condition.

Why collectors choose this bowl

Collectors of vintage tea cups and artisan pottery value this bowl for its clear link to traditional techniques, the signature of a recognized pottery master, and its stabilized condition. The combination of a Shino-like glaze, Karatsu influence, and the whale-skin motif gives it visual and historical interest as both a tea master bowl and a Japanese art piece.

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🌐 International Buyers: Standard DDU terms. Custom duties/taxes are the buyer's responsibility upon delivery.

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🛡️ RETURNS & CONDITION

• Returns: Accepted within 7 days. Buyer pays round-trip shipping costs and processing fees for buyer's remorse.

• Condition: Our items are authentic antiques/vintage. Naturally, they carry signs of age (scratches/wear). Please examine all photos carefully before purchasing.

FAQ

Q: Is this bowl ready for use in a tea ceremony set?

A: Yes. The bowl is described in very good condition and is ready to use with matcha or for display in a tea ceremony set.

Q: What are the exact dimensions and weight of the matcha bowl?

A: The bowl measures H3.1 in × W4.9 in (about H8×12.5cm) and weighs 8.2 oz (232 g).

Q: Does the bowl come with a box or signature?

A: Yes. It is supplied with a kanji-signed wooden box (tomobako) signed by Yamaguchi Jotetsu.

Q: Is this an original handcrafted pottery piece or a reproduction?

A: The listing identifies the piece as handcrafted by Yamaguchi Jotetsu and dated to the Taisho period, making it an authentic chawan and collectible ceramics item.

Q: How should I care for the shino glazed bowl?

A: Hand wash with warm water, avoid strong detergents and thermal shock, and store the bowl in its wooden tomobako or a padded location to protect the glaze and form.