TEA BOWL (chawan) by YAMAGUCHI Makoto

Yamaguchi Makoto is the sixth generation head of a Seto potting dynasty dating back to the mid 19^th century. In this dynamic teabowl his signature thick blue glaze, ofuku, flows and pools into the dense carving and textured surfaces to conjure images of a snowbound, mountainous landscape. Inside the bowl, the residue of a single shell support makes clear the method of firing the piece on its side.

The challenge for any inheritor of a respected family tradition is to continue its work whilst bringing a contemporary originality to the output. Makoto’s father was a contemporary apprentice alongside Suzuki Goro, whose presence in Makoto’s upbringing will also have brought artistic influence. Today, the Japanese ceramic artist community’s respect for Yamaguchi’s work, together with the numerous annual solo exhibitions that he has held in leading Japanese galleries since 2009, are testament to his great achievement and intense work ethic.