This Iraho chawan (伊羅保) is a beautifully rustic tea bowl that embodies the quiet depth and earthy refinement prized in traditional tea aesthetics.
The bowl is formed in a gently flared, conical shape, with a slightly uneven rim that reflects its hand-crafted origin. Its surface is coated in a soft, warm ochre glaze, characteristic of Iraho ware, with tones ranging from muted yellow to sandy beige. The glaze reveals subtle variations and fine speckling, allowing the coarse clay body beneath to softly emerge, giving the piece a natural, unpretentious character.
Inside, the glaze pools lightly, creating a smooth yet softly textured surface that enhances the visual contrast of whisked matcha. The exterior retains visible throwing lines, adding a sense of movement and rhythm to the form, while the foot is left more raw and earthy, grounding the bowl with a tactile, organic presence.
Iraho chawan are historically inspired by Korean tea bowls (Kōrai chawan 高麗茶碗), admired by Japanese tea masters for their simplicity and honest materiality. This piece reflects that lineage, embracing irregularity, warmth, and a quiet humility that aligns closely with the principles of wabi-sabi.
Presented with its original wooden tomobako, the bowl carries a sense of authenticity and care, making it not only a functional tea utensil but also a meaningful object of appreciation. It invites slow use and contemplation, revealing its subtle beauty more deeply with each preparation of tea.
Size: 14 x 14 x 7cm (Chawan)
16 x 16 x 11cm (Box)
