Vintage Takatori Matcha Tea Bowl, the first-generation Onimaru Hekizan, Onimaru Setsuzan Kiln, Takatori Ware, Chawan, Unused,
Takatori ware is a type of 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.
The bowl came to us from a friend, whose family had kept it unused. It comes with its Tomobako (original signed paulownia box), Tomonuno (original artist-stamped cloth), and an artist-provided leaflet.
There are no visible signs of use.
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: Pottery
Color: Takatori Dark Brown, Burnt Umber, Bronze, Sepia, Mahogany, Ochre, Khaki, Buff
Technique: Nagashikake
Condition:
* Excellent vintage condition consistent with age. (Unused)
* Tomobako (original signed paulownia box; Shihousan, wooden nails)
* Tomonuno (original artist-stamped cloth)
* Artist-provided leaflet
* No chips, cracks, scratches, or blemishes.
* Inscription (Refer to No. 9 photo)
* Almost no 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.
