Vintage Shigaraki Matcha Tea Bowl, Takahashi Rakusai IV 1976, Shigaraki Ware, Chawan, Hantsutsu,
Shigaraki Ware Matcha Tea Bowl by 4th Generation Takahashi Rakusai (1976)
Shigaraki Ware
A type of ceramic ware produced in Shigaraki Town, Koka District, Shiga Prefecture.
Production of unglazed, high-fired stoneware began from the late Heian period to the early Kamakura period.
The main products were jars, storage vessels, and mortars, but from the Momoyama period onward, high-quality tea utensils were also produced in response to the development of the tea ceremony.
A distinctive feature of Shigaraki ware is its reddish-brown surface, containing coarse grains of quartz and feldspar.
— Quote from A Dictionary of Japanese Art Terms
4th Generation Takahashi Rakusai
Born in 1925 in Shiga Prefecture as the eldest son of the 3rd generation Takahashi Rakusai. His real name was Mitsuo.
In 1973, he was invited to Los Angeles, where he held a solo exhibition and received a certificate of appreciation from the mayor.
In the same year, he lectured on the structure and firing techniques of climbing kilns and conducted practical instruction on hand-operated potter’s wheels at the University of California.
In 1976, following the passing of his father, he succeeded to the name of the 4th generation Takahashi Rakusai and was certified as a Traditional Craftsman by the Ministry of International Trade and Industry.
In 1991, he received the International Art and Culture Award from the Japan Cultural Promotion Society.
4th Generation Takahashi Rakusai’s Signature
A recognized Traditional Craftsman of Japan, Rakusai IV played an important role in preserving and promoting Shigaraki pottery both domestically and internationally.
His works are distinguishable by his use of the hiragana character “ら” in his signature, unlike the kanji used by previous generations.
This vintage Shigaraki chawan was created in 1976, the year Takahashi Rakusai succeeded as the fourth-generation master.
This piece embodies the bold and rustic spirit of Shigaraki ware, featuring a thick, undulating form with a powerful presence in the hand. The natural ash glaze (bidoro) has flowed organically across the surface during firing, creating beautiful glassy accents that contrast with the warm reddish-brown clay body. Embedded quartz and feldspar inclusions produce subtle “stone bursts,” a hallmark of authentic Shigaraki ceramics.
The bowl reflects the wabi-sabi character associated with Shigaraki ware and is suitable for use as a tea utensil.
Measurements
* Diameter: 11.8cm – 12.9cm / Approx. 4 41/64” – 5 5/64”
* Height: 7.2cm – 7.5cm / Approx. 2 53/64″ – 2 61/64”
* Thickness: 0.6cm / Approx. 0 15/64”
* Weight: 433g
Details
* Age: 1976
* Material: Pottery
* Color: Shigaraki Red Brown, Burnt Umber, Buff, Khaki, Light Gray
* Technique: Natural Glaze, Stone Bursts
Condition:
* Excellent vintage condition consistent with age. (Unused)
* No chips, cracks, scratches, or stains.
* Comes with its Tomobako (original signed paulownia box), its Tomonuno (original artist-stamped cloth), and an artist-provided leaflet.
* Minor kiln effects and natural surface variations (stone bursts) inherent to Shigaraki ware.
* Inscription (Refer to No. 9 photo)
* The leaflet shows slight bending. (Refer to No. 10 photo)
* Wooden nails on the box. (Refer to No. 10 photo)
* Slight discoloration on the box. (Refer to No. 10 photo)
* The kodai (foot ring at the base of the tea bowl) rests on surfaces, so minor contact marks may be present.
Please refer to the photos (including the inscription image) for further details.
If you have any questions about the condition or would like additional photos, please contact us before purchasing.
