Raku Kōnyū (楽弘入) 1857-1932
Raku Kōnyū was born in 1857 as the eldest son of the 11th generation Raku Kichizaemon, Keinyū. His real name was Kosaburō, and his childhood name was Sōjirō. In 1871, at the age of 15, he succeeded as the 12th generation Raku Kichizaemon. In 1919, he retired and moved to Ishiyama in Shiga Prefecture and adopted the name “Kōnyū,” using the character “入” that had been passed down through generations.
Both his Black Raku and Red Raku tea bowls are known for their excellent color expression. He applied a double layer of glaze then he created color variations and natural snake-like glazes. His Black Raku bowls have a slightly yellowish-brown tint, while the glaze on his Red Raku bowls appears somewhat dull, and he is known for producing bluish hue. Additionally, Raku Kōnyū’s works are characterized by his unique use of a spatula. Based on the foundation laid by the 9th generation Raku Ryōnyū, Raku Kōnyū created works that are gentle expression, characteristic form and dynamic. Raku Kōnyū’s works include not only tea bowls but also colorful and beautiful plates, incense containers, and water jars.
The matcha bowl “Oborozuki” was created and named by Raku Kōnyū himself. The large decorative seal, known as the acceptance seal, is applied to the body of the matcha tea bowl, and the glaze is applied differently to that area and its surroundings. The large seal and the surrounding colors resemble a soft “hazy moon” floating in the night sky, which is likely the inspiration for the name. This work is considered a representative piece from Kōnyū’s later years, showcasing the characteristics of his tea bowls.
The photo shows a reproduction work by the 3rd Sasaki Shōraku, born in Kyoto in 1944.
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