This stunning “Kuraku” tea bowl by Sasaki Shōraku blends centuries of Kyoto Raku tradition with a fresh, modern flair. Handcrafted using the tezukune method, where each bowl is shaped entirely by hand, it’s a piece that celebrates the beauty of imperfection and uniqueness. The deep, rich black glaze is brought to life with bold gold brushstrokes, creating a striking contrast that feels both grounded and luxurious. The gold accents add a pop of brilliance, giving the bowl a dynamic energy that feels alive in your hands. Sasaki Shōraku III, a third-generation master born in 1944. Working from the Shōraku Kiln, established in 1903 near Kyoto’s Kiyomizu Temple, Shōraku III is known for his use of the tezukune method—hand-shaping each bowl without a wheel, giving every piece its own unique character, warmth, and expressive form. This tea bowl comes housed in its original signed and inscribed wooden box (tomobako)—a traditional mark of authenticity and artistic origin.
