CHOJIRO'S MIWA | by Sasaki Kyoshitsu, Kiraigama #8

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.  

Chōjirō's Miwa   |   Chawan #8

三輪 |   長次郎

The tea bowl "Miwa" features a slightly elevated and cylindrical shape, characterized by its serene and unpretentious design, free from excessive artifice. A distinctive trait of this piece lies in its glaze application: a thick, transparent glaze cascades like a waterfall, with one side of the body displaying unique patterns. These patterns likely resulted from the flames striking the surface more intensely during firing, creating the tea bowl’s singular glaze scenery. 

From the time of its inscription by Joshinsai, the bowl was part of the Kōnoike family collection and was already referred to as "Miwa."

According to tradition, the name "Miwa" originates from the black fire-mark on the bowl's body, which Sōtan likened to the ancient cedar trees of Mount Miwa. 

Initially owned by Hibi Gorōzaemon, the bowl became part of the Kōnoike family collection in Osaka before the Manji era and was handed down within the family. 

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.