Vintage Black Raku Mei Matcha Tea Bowl, Daitokuji Temple, Takahashi Etsudo, 3rd Sasaki Shoraku, Name (Mei): Muichibutsu (Muichimotsu), Matcha Tea Bowl, Kuro Raku Chawan,
Raku ware is a Kyoto ceramic tradition closely associated with tea bowls. Raku tea bowls are hand-shaped and fired at relatively low temperatures. Black Raku (Kuro Raku) is characterized by its black glaze, while Red Raku (Aka Raku) has a different clay and glaze treatment.
This Black Raku Chawan was made by 3rd Sasaki Shoraku and was named “Muichibutsu (Muichimotsu)” by Takahashi Etsudo.
Takahashi Etsudo was a Zen priest associated with Daitokuji Temple. He entered Daitokuji Soudo in 1948 and studied Rinzai Zen under Goto Zuigan (1879–1965) and Oda Sesso (1901–1966). He became chief priest of Myojoji in 1953.
3rd Sasaki Shoraku was born in Kyoto in 1944. He studied under his father, 2nd Sasaki Shoraku, and later became the third-generation Shoraku.
“Muichibutsu (Muichimotsu)” means “not a single thing” and is associated with the Zen phrase Honrai Muichimotsu.
This tea bowl came from a relative. According to the family, it was not used, and no visible signs of use are apparent. It comes with its Tomobako (original signed paulownia box), Tomonuno (original artist-stamped cloth), and original paper box. A tool mark is visible on the surface.
Measurement
Diameter: 11.5cm / Approx. 4 17/32″
Height: 8cm–8.2cm / Approx. 3 5/32″–3 15/64″
Thickness: 0.7cm / Approx. 9/32″
Weight: 352g
Age: -2000s
Material: Pottery
Color: Black Raku, Cream Gray
Technique: Black Raku
Condition: Excellent vintage condition consistent with age. (Unused)
* Tomobako (original signed paulownia box; Shihousan, wooden nails).
* Tomonuno (original artist-stamped cloth).
* Original paper box.
* No chips, cracks, scratches, or visible blemishes.
* Inscription (Refer to No. 7 and No. 9 photos)
* Almost no discoloration on the wooden box. (Refer to No. 10 photo)
* Light discoloration and scratches on the paper box. (Refer to No. 10 photo)
* No unpleasant odor is present.
* The kodai (foot ring at the base of the tea bowl) rests on surfaces, so minor contact marks may be present.
If you have any questions about the condition or would like additional photos, please contact us before purchasing.
