Iron glaze kiln-transformed tea bowl by Okada Yu

Width: 13.2cm x 12.7cm Height: 9.0cm

Iron-glazed kiln-changed tea bowl by Okada Masaru - "The iron-black light undulates like a whirlwind cutting through the night sky."

Metallic light hidden in the jet-black iron glaze

The iron-rich glaze has a deep, dark black base, but depending on the angle, it emits a dull silvery sheen. The kiln changes that occurred during firing have slightly reduced the glaze surface, bringing to light a subtle luster that resembles the shading on the blade of a sword. The expression, which combines stillness and tension, is reminiscent of the afterglow of lightning cutting through the night sky.

Flowing lines create a "spiral flower"

The large curves that run across the vessel's wall are created by carving away the soft base after shaping on the potter's wheel. As the curves intersect, the interior opens into a petal-like shape with three valleys, while the outside traces the swirling trajectory of wind. As the light glides along the curved surface, the shadows change from moment to moment, creating a sense of vitality, as if the vessel is breathing in response to the movement of your palm.

Gradation of kiln changes

The strength and weakness of the reducing flame and the temperature difference combine to create a light purplish gray color on the rim and a slightly bluish black on the base. These colors blend smoothly together to create a depth that goes beyond a simple black, creating a unique, one-of-a-kind scene that is unique to kiln-fired tea bowls.

Functional beauty in the palm of your hand

The three-sided opening allows for a smooth drinking experience and does not restrict the movement of the chasen. The base is set slightly low, achieving a balance that allows for easy turning while maintaining stability. The thin body promotes a light feel on the mouth, and despite its heavy appearance, it is surprisingly soft to the touch.

A new interpretation of traditional techniques

Based on the classical elements of iron glaze and kiln change, this work combines bold spiral cuts and a modern three-sided mouth form, succinctly illustrating Okada Masaru's creative philosophy of "capturing the landscape of the land in the form of a vessel." The traces of the wind caressing the mountainside in the charcoal mines and the streetlights sparkling in the night breeze of Kiyomizu-Gojozaka are poetically reconstructed within a single bowl.

The deep black of the iron glaze, the sparkle of the kiln changes, and the vibrant spirals created by the flowing lines - this tea bowl breathes between stillness and movement, like a breeze that blows into the tea ceremony, leaving a vivid impression on this once-in-a-lifetime occasion.