KOETSU'S SHICHIRI | by Sasaki Kyoshitsu, Kiraigama #6

This bowl, crafted by Shokunin Sasaki Kyoshitsu (intangible cultural heritage of Kyoto) is a recreation of a chawan that has particular meaning in Japanese history.  

Kōetsu's Shichiri  |   Chawan #6

七里 | 光悦

The name "Shichiri" is believed to derive from a certain individual, Hikoemon, who was associated with the tea bowl. However, the identity and background of this Hikoemon remain a mystery. Later, the bowl came into the possession of Seizaemon of Iseya, a merchant in Edo Kuramae, and subsequently passed through the hands of Masuda Katsunori and Masuda Don'ō in Kanazawa. After World War II, it was owned by an unnamed tea enthusiast before becoming part of the collection of the late Gotō Keita. It is now housed in the Gotō Museum of Art.

The bowl resembles the "Fujisan" tea bowl, with a distinct ridge accentuating its waist. The carving of the footring also displays Kōetsu's characteristic deliberate artistry. The rim of the bowl is crafted in a flat style, but unlike the strongly expressive forms of pieces like "Amagumo" (Rain Cloud), this bowl exhibits a gentle and subdued design.

Shokunin Sasaki Kyoshitsu, intangible cultural heritage of Kyoto

佐々木虚室 (Sasaki Kyoshitsu)  was born in Showa 39 (1964), in Kyoto, to a well known family of ceramic artisans.  A brief timeline of his life:

Chojiro's Mukiguri

This bowl is a stunning replica of a famous tea bowl called Mukiguri (ムキ栗), created by the first Raku master (長次郎 Chojiro). The original bowl belonged to Sen No Rikyu and was reportedly one of his favourites.  Holding this bowl is a real pleasure.