Vintage Japanese Chawan Matcha Tea Bowl, 1966 - 1989 (Late Showa) | SKU: 26M-851 (26M-851-7)

Japanese Chawan Tea Bowl | Matcha Bowl & Wabi-Sabi Decor Accent, 1966-1989 (Late Showa), SKU 26M-851-7

A handcrafted stoneware chawan with a dramatic kuro-tenmoku glaze -- raw, volcanic texture meets deep earthy beauty.

A chawan is a traditional Japanese tea bowl used in the practice of chado, the Way of Tea, to prepare and drink whisked matcha. This striking example embodies the wabi-sabi aesthetic in its purest form -- the slightly asymmetrical, hand-shaped form; the roughly textured exterior where the glaze has bubbled and crawled to reveal the dark stoneware body beneath; and the rich deep burgundy-to-black glaze that pools and drips in the manner associated with tenmoku-style firing. The interior is glazed in a dense, matte black with subtle speckling, ideal for appreciating the bright green contrast of whisked matcha. The small, trimmed foot ring visible on the base is characteristic of hand-thrown Japanese antique pottery, and faint traces of a potter's mark or seal can be seen on the base. This is a fine example of vintage Japanese tea ceremony craft from the Late Showa period, when studio potters actively revived older kiln traditions.

Beyond the tea room, this chawan is a versatile and eye-catching piece for any modern interior. Display it on a shelf or windowsill as a living room accent that embodies Japandi style -- its textural, volcanic surface commands attention without demanding color. It works beautifully as a small catchall bowl on a bedside table or home office desk, or as a unique vessel for a single succulent or air plant in a minimalist decor setting. A compelling gift for collectors, Japanophiles, or anyone who appreciates handcrafted ceramics and the quiet philosophy of wabi-sabi.

• Origin: Japan
• Era: 1966-1989 (Late Showa)
• Material: Stoneware with tenmoku-style kuro (black) and iron-red glaze; heavily textured volcanic glaze surface
• Use: Chawan -- tea bowl used for preparing and drinking matcha in the Japanese tea ceremony (chado)
• Modern Use: Matcha bowl for daily use; decorative accent bowl for living room or home office; small planter for a succulent or air plant
• Features: Hand-thrown asymmetric form; dramatically bubbled and crawled glaze with deep burgundy-to-black tenmoku coloring; matte black speckled interior; trimmed foot ring; potter's mark visible on base
• Dimensions: 4 1/2" Diameter x 3"H
• Condition: Excellent

A rare and tactile piece of vintage Japanese tea ceremony pottery -- a daily meditation on beauty, imperfection, and craft.

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.