Vintage Japanese Ceremonial Matcha Bowl by Katō Sakusuke, c. mid-1900s

This Oribe chawan (ceremonial tea bowl), signed with the distinctive stamp, is an exceptional work by Katō Sakusuke I, a renowned master of the Mino ceramic tradition. The bowl embodies the vibrant and unconventional spirit of Oribe ware, renowned for its innovative designs and bold aesthetics. The exterior features a dynamic interplay of earthy beige and deep green-black glaze, with abstract brushstrokes evoking natural motifs such as cascading wisteria or vines. The glaze, with its organic drips and pooling, adds a sense of movement and spontaneity that is characteristic of Oribe’s playful yet refined style. The interior showcases a crackled glaze, adding texture and depth to the piece, while the unglazed base reveals the clay's raw, earthy character, proudly bearing Sakusuke I's signature stamp. This chawan is both a functional vessel for the tea ceremony, the ritual for drinking matcha, and a collectible piece of fine Japanese pottery, reflecting the enduring legacy of the Sakusuke lineage within the Oribe tradition.

Condition

Used (normal wear)

Color

Beige

Original Or Reproduction

Antique original

Status

Original Sakusuke