Setoguro matcha bowl
One from one kiln
Setoguro is characterized by its captivating deep black color. Achieving this beautiful black involves applying a glaze made from Oniita (iron-rich clay) mixed with ash, and then firing it at high temperatures. While still hot, the piece is removed from the kiln and rapidly cooled—a technique known as "hikidashi-guro." Over 500 years ago, this elusive ware was produced for only about 30 years in the world of tea.
The Setoguro ware, which embodies the unique Japanese aesthetic principles of wabi-sabi, is known for its distinct value in the tea ceremony world. By pulling the piece from a kiln exceeding 1,100 degrees Celsius and rapidly cooling it, it transforms into a deep black while emitting beautiful sounds (crackling sounds) during the cooling process.
Due to the challenging nature of this technique, only up to three pieces can be fired in a single kiln at a time. Achieving a satisfactory black color is extremely difficult, and producing even one satisfactory piece from a single kiln firing is considered a success.
Shino Matcha bowl
The moment of change
Shino is an elusive vessel that was created for only a brief period in the tea world over 500 years ago. It was fired for only about 20 to 30 years from the late 16th century to the early 17th century (in large kilns and anagama kilns), but it blossomed during a transformative period in Japanese art, revolutionizing the aesthetic sensibilities of the people at the time. The charm of Shino lies in its characteristic appearance of a snow-white surface, created by using feldspar, with a subtle, warm fire color visible within it. Bringing out this beautiful color is extremely difficult due to the need for strong reduction firing, where the kiln temperature does not easily rise, necessitating constant temperature adjustments day and night. The kiln firing lasts for more than seven days, conducted under extremely harsh conditions, requiring careful attention. The outcome varies significantly with the seasons and climate, demanding a level of delicacy that allows for no moment of inattention. The color of Shino leaves an impression like "the soil seen after the snow melts" or "a beautiful sunset formed by clouds and the setting sun." Capturing and expressing the fleeting beauty of nature without any preconceived ideas or intentions, Shino continues to captivate people's hearts both now and in the past.
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How to use and care for your utensils
Wipe off the water with a soft cloth or kitchen paper.
Sun-dry for 2 hours, or if the weather is bad or drying indoors, dry for 12 hours.
The bottom (foot) of the matcha bowl is where you can directly feel the rare clay, but it can absorb water.
To prevent mold, please complete the drying process as outlined in STEP 3.
