Vintage Takatori Matcha Tea Bowl, the first-generation Onimaru Hekizan, Onimaru Setsuzan Kiln, Takatori Ware, Chawan, Unused,
MB-121401
Takatori ware is a traditional Japanese pottery produced in the areas around Nogata and Iizuka in Fukuoka Prefecture. During the Edo period it flourished as an official kiln of the Kuroda domain. It is said to have been founded in the Keicho era (1596–1615) by the Korean potter Yasan, who came to Japan from the Joseon Dynasty. Early works resemble Karatsu ware in style, but by the Kan’ei period a distinctive aesthetic had developed, characterized by refined forms and layered iron glazes. Takatori ware came to be especially valued for tea utensils.
— Quote from A Dictionary of Japanese Art Terms
This bowl is a work by Onimaru Hekizan, who inherited and continued the tea-ceramic tradition of Takatori ware. The piece expresses the quiet dignity and balance characteristic of Takatori tea pottery, with a restrained form and softly nuanced glaze. Such qualities embody the spirit of utensils made for the practice of tea.
First Generation Onimaru Hekizan (1947–2006)
Born April 19, 1947, in Koishiwara, Fukuoka Prefecture, as the eldest son of Onimaru Setsuzan (1912-1996). His given name was Katsuhiro.
He received the artist name “Hekizan” from Rev. Houtani Komei (1913-1995), Chief Abbot of Daitoku-ji, the head temple of the Rinzai Zen sect.
1967 – Began training under his father Onimaru Setsuzan, renowned as a master of the potter’s wheel.
1972 – Selected for the Japan Traditional Craft Exhibition.
1976 – Selected for the Japan Ceramic Art Exhibition; thereafter received numerous selections and awards at major exhibitions including the Seibu Craft Exhibition and the Kyushu-Yamaguchi Ceramic Exhibition.
1977 – Held a solo exhibition at Mitsukoshi Main Store in Nihonbashi, Tokyo, followed by exhibitions in various locations.
1982 – Certified as a Traditional Craftsman by the Association for the Promotion of Traditional Craft Industries; also recognized as a Full Member of the Japan Kōgei Association.
1985 – Received the Governor’s Award at the Fukuoka Prefectural Art Exhibition.
1999 – Commended by the Kyushu Bureau of International Trade and Industry.
2000 – Served as an officer of the Kyushu Regional Council for Traditional Craft Industries and as Chairman of the Koishiwara Pottery Cooperative Association.
He passed away on January 1, 2006.
Hekizan devoted himself to the tradition of Takatori tea ceramics, producing fine works such as tea bowls, tea caddies, and water jars.
Potter’s mark: circular seal reading “Hekizan,” among others.
This tea bowl reflects the quiet refinement of Takatori ware and the spirit of utensils created for the practice of tea.
In the stillness of the tea room, it offers a moment of calm reflection—an object through which the spirit of tea and Zen may gently be felt.
In the quiet space of the tea room, a bowl such as this becomes more than a vessel.
It is a companion to a moment of stillness—where the spirit of tea, simplicity, and reflection naturally arise.
Silence held in clay.
We got it from our friend. It is still in excellent condition with original paulownia box and original cloth. (Unused).
According to our friend, her family did not use the tea bowl.
We do not see any sign of using it, too.
Measurements
Diameter: 12cm / Approx. 4 23/32”
Height: 6.2cm / Approx. 2 7/16″
Thickness: 0.4cm / Approx. 0 5/32”
Weight: 178g
Details
Age: 1994
Material: Earthenware, Pottery
Color: Takatori Dark Blown, Burnt Umber, Bronze, Sepia, Mahogany, Ochre, Khaki, Buff
Technique: Nagashikake
Condition
* Excellent vintage condition consistent with age. (Unused)
* Original paulownia box (Shihousan, wood nails)
* Original cloth
* Original guide paper
* No chips, no cracks, no scratches and no blemishes.
* Inscription (Refer to No. 9 photo)
* Almost no discoloration on the box. (Refer to No. 10 Photo)
* You may find “minor scratch” on kodai (the base section of a tea bowl).
Please refer to the photos (including the inscription image) for further details.
Important Notes
* Colors may appear slightly different depending on your monitor or device.
* This is a vintage item. If you are very particular about condition or are looking for a perfect, brand-new item, please refrain from purchasing.
* We recommend purchasing Package Protection for fully insured shipping.
*** If you have any questions or would like additional photos, please feel free to contact us. ***
