Soba bowl with lid - Traditional Brushed Pottery

Traditional brushed soba bowl with lid. Handmade and painted in Iga.

Handcrafted in the historic Iga region, in Mie prefecture, this mug exemplifies the wabi-sabi philosophy, embracing the beauty of natural imperfections. Made from high-quality, fire-resistant clay, each piece features unique textures and ash glaze patterns from the wood-firing process.

Perfect for enjoying a dessert, soup, or soba, this bowl is a functional piece and a work of art that brings a touch of Japan's rich cultural heritage to your daily rituals.

Features:

• Authentic Iga ware from Mie Prefecture
• Handcrafted using traditional methods
• Unique textures and natural ash glaze
• Holds approximately [specific volume]
• Ideal for soba or soup or desserts

Embrace the timeless beauty of Iga ware. Add a piece of Japanese heritage to your collection.

Details

• • Height: 7.5cm approx.
  • Diameter at top: 9.5 cm approx.

In the box

• 1 x Japanese brushed soba bowl with lid

Historical Background

• Origin: Iga ware dates back to the late 7th century, with significant development during the Kamakura (1185-1333) and Muromachi (1336-1573) periods.
• Development: The ceramics gained popularity during the Momoyama period (1573-1603) when tea ceremonies became prominent. Iga ware's natural aesthetics and earthy tones were highly valued by tea masters.

Characteristics

• Clay: The clay used in Iga ware is rich in silica and iron, giving it a distinctive texture and strength. This clay is known for its fire-resistant properties, making it ideal for kilns.
• Firing Process: Iga ware is typically wood-fired, which creates unique variations in color and texture. The firing process can result in natural ash glazes and an uneven surface, adding to the rustic charm.
• Aesthetics: The pottery often features a rough, unrefined look with intentional imperfections, cracks, and warping, embodying the Japanese wabi-sabi philosophy, which finds beauty in imperfection and transience.

Notable Techniques

• Hori-kanna: This technique involves carving the surface of the pottery to create decorative patterns and textures.
• Kohiki: A method where a white slip is applied over the clay body before firing, creating a contrast between the white surface and the clay's natural color.

Modern Iga Ware

Today, Iga ware continues to be produced using traditional methods, with artisans dedicated to preserving the craft. Contemporary Iga ceramics are appreciated for both their historical significance and their aesthetic qualities, making them popular among collectors and tea ceremony practitioners.

Note: All Iga ware ceramics are unique pieces made entirely by hand and baked in wood fire climbing kilns. Each is a little different. Differences between the pictures and your item are normal. Please see pictures to get an idea about the differences in appearance and texture.