Yagyu Ware Cinnabar Tea Bowl by Kotaro Ikura

Width: 11.5cm Height: 8.1cm

The "Yagyu Ware Cinnabar Tea Bowl" by ceramic artist Kotaro Ikura is a matcha bowl characterized by the deep, beautiful red color of cinnabar. This piece has a rich expression and an overwhelming presence thanks to the thick layers of cinnabar glaze. This tea bowl, which combines the culture of Yagyu with Ikura's techniques, is a masterpiece that will add color to any tea ceremony venue.

The History and Mysterious Color of Cinnabar

Cinnabar is a mineral named for its unique red color and cultural background, and has influenced many cultures since ancient times as a mysterious entity. The name comes from the Chinese word "cinnabar" (chen shā), with "chen" meaning star and "sand" meaning powdered form. Cinnabar is also called "dragon's blood" and its vivid red color symbolized mystical powers in ancient China, and was highly valued by emperors and aristocrats for longevity and protection from evil. In the West, cinnabar, also known as "cinnabar," has been used as a pigment and decoration since ancient Roman times, and its vermilion color was highly valued. This color has had a strong symbolic meaning in many cultures from ancient times to the present day.

Thickly applied cinnabar glaze gives depth

This tea bowl is characterized by the cinnabar glaze that was carefully applied in layers by Kotaro Ikura. The thickly applied cinnabar changes color subtly depending on the angle from which it is viewed, giving it an almost lifelike texture. The lustrous red color takes on a deep depth, giving the entire tea bowl a mysterious yet powerful impression.

Presence as tea pottery

This cinnabar tea bowl exerts an overwhelming presence at the tea ceremony. While the red cinnabar creates a visual impact, its color harmonizes with the Japanese space and the ceremony of the tea ceremony, maintaining elegance and dignity. It is also highly practical as a tea bowl, and its shape that fits comfortably in the hand and its smooth finish bring satisfaction when used in an actual tea ceremony.

Carrying on the traditions of Yagyu ware

Yagyu ware is pottery that has been passed down in the mountain village of Yagyu, the land of the sword saint in Nara, and its roots date back to when Yagyu Jubei's grandmother, Harumomo Gozen, fired a horse-headed Kannon statue. This tradition was once discontinued, but Kotaro Ikura, the fourth generation potter, continues to make pottery and protects the name of Yagyu ware. This "Yagyu ware cinnabar tea bowl" also has a unique beauty born from the land and traditions of Yagyu, and adds new value to the tea ceremony venue.

The charm of vibrant cinnabar

This "Yagyu Ware Cinnabar Tea Bowl" by Kotaro Ikura captivates the viewer with its vivid red color unique to cinnabar, and its cultural background and mystique further enhance its value. This tea bowl, which is a perfect fusion of tradition and innovation, is not only a beautiful addition to a tea ceremony, but also a piece of art that will captivate the heart as an ornamental piece.

"Yagyu Ware Cinnabar Tea Bowl by Kotaro Ikura" is a masterpiece that brings new charm to the modern tea ceremony with the deep red color of cinnabar, which has been said to have mystical powers since ancient times. For those who love the tea ceremony, this tea bowl will be a special item and provide a rich experience.