This Hagi-yaki (萩焼) chawan, crafted by Nakamura Shinichi (中村真一), embodies the quiet, contemplative beauty for which Hagi ware is so deeply admired.
The bowl is gently formed with a soft, natural silhouette, its slightly uneven rim and balanced foot reflecting the hand of the maker. True to the spirit of Hagi ceramics, the surface is covered in a warm, milky glaze that subtly shifts in tone—ranging from pale ivory to faint blush and earthy undertones—creating a calm and inviting presence.
A hallmark of Hagi ware, the delicate network of fine crackles (kannyū 貫入) runs across the glaze, gradually deepening over time as tea seeps into the surface. This evolving character, known as “Hagi no nanabake” (萩の七化け), is especially cherished in tea culture, as each use enriches the bowl’s appearance and history.
Subtle variations in glaze thickness and firing create soft pooling and gentle transitions, while areas near the foot reveal the warm, natural clay body beneath. The interior is smooth and luminous, beautifully complementing the vivid green of matcha, enhancing both visual and sensory experience.
Nakamura Shinichi, working within the Hagi tradition, brings a sensitivity to form and surface that honors both heritage and individuality. His works often emphasize restraint, material honesty, and the quiet dialogue between clay, glaze, and use.
This chawan is not only a vessel for tea, but a living object—one that matures with time, inviting the user to appreciate the subtle transformations that come with each preparation. It is a true expression of wabi-sabi, where simplicity, imperfection, and impermanence are embraced with grace.
Size: 12.5 x 12.5 x 7.5cm
