Tamadare Five-Sided Matcha Bowl
The Tamadare Five-Sided Matcha Bowl embodies the quiet sophistication and raw elegance of Bizen ware, where natural forces and human dedication converge under the mastery of Mori Toshiaki. Its gently flowing five-paneled structure stretches organically from a pentagonal foot, creating balance between structure and spontaneity. The surface is adorned with the goma pattern, delicate sesame-like specks formed by the melting ash of Japanese red pine during firing. Trails of tamadare glaze—where molten ash pools and drips—grace the rim with a fluid, unrepeatable beauty.
Achieving this unique yet balanced pairing of form and glaze demanded extraordinary patience and precision. The bowl underwent multiple firings in a noborigama climbing kiln, carefully positioned to allow ash to accumulate and flow naturally. Only when placed on the topmost, front-facing shelf—where flame and ash move most freely—did the cascading trails of tamadare emerge. Such a technique carries inherent risks, as the unpredictable behavior of flame and ash can yield unanticipated outcomes. Yet, it is precisely this interplay of control and serendipity that defines Mori’s work, transforming each piece into a refined expression of nature’s dynamism.
Mori blends reverence for tradition with a spirit of innovation. The bowl’s softly contoured panels and sculptural foot reflect his philosophy of harmonizing deliberate design with organic spontaneity. Completely unglazed, its surface relies entirely on the transformative power of fire, guided by Mori’s practiced hand and the elemental alchemy of the kiln.
This chawan invites a meditative connection with its user. The unglazed Bizen clay enhances the flavors of the tea, while the bowl’s flowing contours and grounding presence foster a moment of calm reflection. The Tamadare Five-Sided Matcha Bowl embodies the timeless artistry and elemental spirit of Mori Toshiaki, honoring both function and beauty in its quiet refinement.
