Vintage Japanese Chawan Matcha Tea Bowl, 1966 - 1989 (Late Showa) | SKU: 26M-851 (26M-851-5)

Japanese Chawan Tea Bowl | Matcha Bowl & Wabi-Sabi Decor Accent, 1966-1989 (Late Showa), SKU 26M-851-5

A deep black tenmoku-glazed chawan with shimmering oil-spot surface -- handcrafted Japanese tea ceremony pottery at its most elemental.

A chawan is a traditional Japanese tea bowl used in the practice of chado, the way of tea. This striking example is glazed in a deep, lustrous black -- a style closely associated with tenmoku ware, a glaze tradition prized in the Japanese tea ceremony for its depth, subtlety, and wabi-sabi aesthetic. The interior surface reveals a fine scattering of pale silvery spots pooling into soft cloud-like forms, a natural effect produced by the kiln atmosphere and the glaze's mineral composition. The exterior carries the same rich glaze, stopping just short of the unglazed foot ring -- a cleanly trimmed, wide kodai typical of handcrafted Japanese pottery from the late Showa period. The wheel-thrown form is confident and full, with gently flared walls that sit comfortably in both hands -- ideal for whisking matcha in the traditional manner. This is vintage Japanese teaware with genuine character, appealing to collectors of Japanese antique ceramics and practitioners of the tea ceremony alike.

Beyond its original ceremonial role, this chawan is a beautiful object to live with in a modern home. Its bold black glaze and compact form make it a natural centerpiece on a minimalist dining table, a Japandi-style shelf display, or a living room accent. Use it as a small catch-all bowl for jewelry or keys on a bedside table or entryway surface, or display it solo as a sculptural object that embodies the wabi-sabi aesthetic. It also makes a deeply thoughtful and unique gift for Japanophiles, matcha enthusiasts, or anyone who appreciates handcrafted Japanese pottery.

• Origin: Japan
• Era: 1966-1989 (Late Showa)
• Material: Stoneware with deep black tenmoku-style glaze; unglazed foot ring in pale buff clay
• Use: Chawan -- Japanese tea ceremony bowl, used for preparing and drinking matcha
• Modern Use: Matcha or cafe au lait bowl; decorative display on a shelf or table; small catchall dish for jewelry or trinkets
• Features: Deep glossy black glaze with scattered oil-spot patterning on the interior; soft cloud-like pale silver pooling; cleanly trimmed wide foot ring in unglazed stoneware; full rounded form with gently flared rim; handcrafted wheel-thrown construction
• Dimensions: 5" Diameter x 2"H
• Condition: Excellent

A timeless piece of handcrafted Japanese pottery -- this tenmoku chawan carries the quiet beauty of the tea ceremony into any modern home.

We use professional studio lighting to highlight the natural character of the wood. As a result, the tone may appear slightly warmer than under natural daylight.

All vintage and antique items are sold as-is. Each piece may exhibit signs of age, including scratches, wear, or minor imperfections. These are not considered defects but natural evidence of the item’s authenticity and age.