Tenmoku glaze sake cup by Okada Yu

Width: 8.1cm Height: 5.1cm

Tenmoku glaze sake cup

- Created by Masaru Okada -

Work summary

This Tenmoku-glazed sake cup was created by Okada Masaru, who has a kiln in Uji Sumiyama, Kyoto. Bands of kiln changes overlap the muted purple-gray base, creating a profound landscape with a soft gloss and matte finish. The three-tiered, uneven body gently blocks the flow of the glaze, highlighting the layered color range and shading.

Glaze and Technique

Fluctuation firing : High-purity iron is added to the feldspar-based Tenmoku glaze, and after the first reduction process produces a black color, Okada uses his unique "fluctuation firing" process, which alternates between reduction and oxidation. This results in complex color layers such as purple gray, crimson purple, and blue-black.

Steps and kiln changes : The temperature gradient changes slightly at each step, causing fine iron crystals to precipitate in the recesses, giving them a silvery-gray sheen, while melting progresses in the protruding parts, creating a slightly glossy purple-black color.

Texture : The surface has a satin-like semi-gloss finish and feels silky smooth to the touch. It also feels slightly sticky to the fingertips, creating a sense of security as it fits snugly in the palm of your hand.

Historical background

Tenmoku glaze originated from the black-glazed bowls of the Jian Kiln in Fujian Province during the Song dynasty, and originated from the cultural treasure "Tenmoku tea bowls" brought to Japan by Zen monks. The accidental crystallization of oil droplets and Yohen patterns was highly valued, and the "magic of kiln change" became deeply rooted in tea ceremony culture. The purple-gray scenery of this piece is reminiscent of the rare "Haikatsugi" Tenmoku, and can be said to be a new expression born from the encounter between tradition and modern technology.

Aesthetic Intention and Spirituality

The three-tiered structure symbolizes the "layers of mountains and rivers," expressing the passage of time in nature beyond human comprehension. The metallic faint light hidden in the purple ash suggests the stillness and infinity that are reminiscent of the "mysterious" Zen philosophy, inviting the mind to reflect upon itself as one sips.

How to use and points to note

Suitable for cold to slightly warm sake : The matte glaze keeps the sake at a gentle temperature and gently releases its aroma.

Changes with lighting : Oblique light accentuates the steps and makes the silver-gray crystals stand out. Warm light makes the reddish-purple color blur, so it is recommended to enjoy it by changing the time of day and the light source.

A pleasure to hold : The stepped part provides a comfortable grip for your fingers, making it easy to hold in one hand.

The rich shadows created by the rhythm of the steps and the silver sparkle hidden deep within the purple gray... This sake cup is a symbol of the deepening of Okada Masaru's pursuit of "beauty of kiln transformation." Enjoy the changing colors and textures in your hands as you gaze into a tranquil universe.