Chawan Chawan with Fuji Motif Made of Raku Ware by Shoraku Sasaki

Mount Fuji, Japan's sacred and highest mountain, has always been one of the most significant motifs in Japanese art, and this tea bowl also takes up its silhouette: a snow-white upper area transitions into a dark, earthy-black lower part, like the snow-covered summit rising from dark volcanic rock. The chawan is hand-formed using the Raku-yaki technique and bears the stamp of Shoraku Sasaki, whose works are often notable for their reduced, pictorial compositions.

The transition between the two glaze zones runs irregularly and cloud-like, so that no two pieces are alike – an effect that is only finally decided in the kiln. Along the lower rim, the glaze shimmers slightly golden, setting a warm accent against the dark surface.

The bowl is delivered in a wooden box signed by the master potter, which documents its provenance and ensures dignified storage. With its quiet yet unmistakable pictorial motif, this chawan from the Shōwa period is a special piece for lovers of Japanese tea ceramics and Fuji iconography.