Tenmoku glaze sake cup by Okada Yu

Width: 8.1cm Height: 5.1cm

Tenmoku glaze sake cup

-- Created by Masaru Okada --

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Work summary

This is a Tenmoku-glazed sake cup made by Okada Masaru, who has a kiln in Uji-tanzan, Kyoto. The muted purple-gray base is covered with overlapping bands of kiln changes, and the soft gloss and matte finish create a profound landscape. The three-tiered uneven shape of the body gently blocks the flow of the glaze, highlighting the layered color range and shading.

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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" method, which alternates between reduction and oxidation. This results in complex color layers such as purple gray, red 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, which shine with a silver-gray color, while the protruding parts continue to melt, producing a slightly glossy purple-black color.

Texture : The surface is semi-glossy with a satin finish, and feels silky smooth to the touch. It also feels slightly sticky to the fingertips, giving you a sense of security as it fits snugly in the palm of your hand.

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Historical background

Tenmoku glaze originated from the black-glazed bowls of Jian kilns in Fujian Province during the Song dynasty, and was derived from the cultural asset "Tenmoku tea bowls" brought to Japan by Zen monks. The expression of accidental crystals such as oil droplets and Yohen is highly valued, and has taken root deeply in the culture of tea ceremony as the "wonder of kiln transformation." The purple gray scenery of this work is a color that is reminiscent of the rare "Haikatsugi Tenmoku," and it can be said to be a new expression born from the encounter between tradition and modern technology.

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Aesthetic intent and spirituality

The three tiers symbolize the "layers of mountains and rivers," expressing the age of nature beyond human understanding. The metallic glow hidden in the purple ash suggests the stillness and infinity of the "mysterious" Zen, inviting you to a moment of introspection as you sip your cup.

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How to use and points to note

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

Changes due to lighting : Oblique light emphasizes the steps and makes the silver-gray crystals stand out. Warm light makes the crimson purple 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 fingertip grip, making it fit comfortably in one hand.

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The rich shadows created by the rhythm of the steps and the silver sparkle hidden deep within the purple gray... This sake cup represents the deepening of "Kiln-changed beauty" that Okada Masaru continues to pursue. Enjoy the changing colors and textures in your hands as you enjoy a moment of quiet peering into the universe.