This rustic Hagi-yaki (萩焼) matcha bowl embodies the warmth and simplicity cherished in the Japanese tea ceremony. Its surface displays soft greyish-white tones with subtle natural striations, a characteristic effect of Hagi clay and glazing. The faint crackle (kan-nyū 貫入) adds depth and texture, enhancing its wabi-sabi aesthetic—the beauty of imperfection and transience.
On the exterior, a small hand-painted detail in soft colors adds a charming focal point, blending tradition with a touch of individuality. The form is slightly irregular, emphasizing its handmade nature and the tactile connection between potter and tea practitioner.
Hagi-yaki, originating from Hagi in Yamaguchi Prefecture, has been beloved for centuries by tea masters for its soft clay body, warm glazes, and the way it matures beautifully with use. Over time, as tea is enjoyed in the bowl, the glaze absorbs subtle tea stains, developing a deeper patina known as nanabake (七化け), meaning the bowl “changes seven times in color”—a prized transformation for collectors.
