This is the September 2013 (No. 542) issue of Chiisana Tsubomi (小さな蕾), a Japanese monthly magazine devoted to antique art, traditional crafts and collecting. Known for its thoughtful articles and beautifully photographed objects, the magazine offers an intimate look into both museum collections and privately treasured works.
The main feature, 「他力の茶味 — K氏茶陶コレクション」, explores a private collection of tea ceramics (茶陶) and the particular beauty and atmosphere they bring to the Japanese tea ceremony. The cover features a wonderfully expressive tea bowl, its heavily crackled glaze and earthy surface embodying the irregularity and quiet character so highly appreciated in Japanese tea aesthetics.
The issue also includes 「刀を超える美」 (Beauty Beyond the Sword), based on the Seireki exhibition at the Sano Art Museum, examining the artistic qualities of Japanese sword-related works, alongside 「柿右衛門通観 III」, continuing an exploration of Kakiemon (柿右衛門) and its celebrated porcelain tradition.
Rich in specialist photography and cultural context, this vintage publication makes an excellent reference for collectors and admirers of Japanese tea ceramics, chawan, Kakiemon porcelain, Japanese antiques and traditional craftsmanship.
