15 Christmas tea bowl by Kenzan, by Kosai Miyagawa

Height: 9.0cm Width: 10.5cm

"Kenzan Copy Christmas Tea Bowl" is a very unique piece that incorporates a modern Christmas theme while using the traditional Kyoto ware technique of Kenzan copying. This tea bowl depicts a scene of snow piled up on a miniature red house and Santa Claus being pulled by a reindeer in a sleigh, evoking a sense of cuteness and playfulness. The snow is slightly raised, which is a distinctive feature of this piece and allows you to enjoy the texture as well. The charm of "Kenzan Copy Christmas Tea Bowl" is that while it incorporates such a theme, Miyagawa Kosai's solid technique shines through.

Kenzan's Copy and Its Tradition

"Kenzan Copy" refers to a technique that imitates the style of Ogata Kenzan, a famous Edo period potter, and revives it in modern times. Kenzan brought revolution to pottery with his innovative designs and free ideas. Kenzan copies are reproduced using traditional techniques while respecting the originality of his works. This tea bowl by Miyagawa Kosai inherits Kenzan's spirit while also taking on a new challenge by incorporating a modern Christmas theme. In particular, the motifs of snow and Santa Claus' sleigh painted on the tea bowl are elements not seen in traditional Japanese tea utensils, and give it a sense of originality.

A fusion of traditional and modern Kyoto ware

While "Ninsei Copy" is a copy of Nonomura Ninsei's style, "Kenzan Copy" is a copy of Ogata Kenzan's style, and the difference is reflected in the technique and design. Miyagawa Kosai, a prestigious Kyoto ware manufacturer, has inherited traditional techniques such as "Ninsei Copy" and "Kenzan Copy", but with this "Christmas Painted Tea Bowl", he has attempted to fuse these traditions with modern motifs. In particular, this Christmas-themed tea bowl is a special piece not seen in other potters, and it gives a sense of new possibilities for Kyoto ware.

Characteristics and techniques of Makuzu ware

Makuzu ware is known for its diverse range of techniques. It incorporates a wide range of traditional Kyoto ware techniques, such as blue and white, iron painting, Kochi, and gold lining, to add depth to its pieces. This "Christmas Painted Tea Bowl" is also a concentrated example of Makuzu ware techniques, characterized by the beauty of the overglaze painting and the rich colors. The craftsmanship can be seen everywhere, and the moment you hold the tea bowl in your hands, you will be impressed by its delicate construction.

The history of the Miyagawa family and the tradition of Makuzu ware

The Miyagawa family has been engaged in pottery since around 1680, producing pieces that respond to the changing times. The Miyagawa Kosai family continues to create pieces that specialize in tea ceremony and sencha tea utensils, and their aesthetic sense and techniques have been passed down from generation to generation. This "Christmas Painted Tea Bowl" also combines practicality as a tea ceremony utensil with elegant beauty, making it a piece that embodies the spirit of the tea ceremony. While carrying on the traditions of the Miyagawa family's pottery production, it has a unique presence by incorporating new themes that are in line with the times.

Overseas expansion and evaluation

The appeal of Makuzu ware is highly valued not only in Japan, but also overseas in countries such as the United States, the United Kingdom, France, and China. The works are supported by pottery lovers around the world for their designs that reflect modern sensibilities in addition to traditional techniques. This "Christmas Painted Tea Bowl" is also a work that symbolizes the gorgeous traditional beauty of Kyoto, and its refined shape and dignity are highly regarded internationally. It is loved by collectors around the world as an art work that goes beyond the scope of tea utensils. The "Kenzan Copy Christmas Painted Tea Bowl" is a special work that symbolizes the fusion of tradition and modernity. This tea bowl, which makes use of the various techniques of Makuzu ware and is made with a unique design and solid technology, has an elegant beauty that captivates those who see it. It has been loved throughout the ages, and its value is unshakable, whether as a family heirloom or as a vessel for daily use, and it will continue to be loved by many people for a long time.