Japanese Chawan Tea Bowl (24A-232-11)

This vintage Japanese tea bowl (chawan) is a stunning example of traditional craftsmanship, beautifully housed in its original wooden box (tomobako) for safekeeping. The chawan is an essential item in the Japanese tea ceremony, or chanoyu, where it serves not only as a vessel for enjoying matcha but also as a reflection of wabi-sabi, the philosophy of beauty in imperfection. Each tea bowl is unique, with subtle variations in shape, glaze, and texture that are celebrated by tea masters and collectors alike.

This particular chawan features a gracefully worn patina, hinting at its long history and use in tea ceremonies over the years. The wooden box, often signed by the artist or kiln, adds to the authenticity and value of the piece, making it a collector’s item steeped in cultural significance. Whether displayed as a work of art or used in tea preparation, this tea bowl embodies the serene elegance and rich heritage of Japanese tea culture.