Bizen-yaki Chawan —By Yamamoto Soshu (山本 宗秀)

Traditional Firing | Bota-mochi Mark | Bishuu-gama Kiln

Crafted by renowned Bizen potter Yamamoto Soshu, this chawan exemplifies the powerful aesthetic of traditional Bizen-ware. The potter, Soshu, is the wife and collaborator of Living National Treasure Toshu Yamamoto. Along with her husband, Sochi works at the Bishuu-gama kiln in Okayama, where she continues the legacy of classical wood-fired ceramics.

• Clay: Native iron-rich Bizen clay
• Form: Half-cylinder shape (han-gata)
• Surface: Naturally unglazed with thick wood-ash glazing
• Firing Feature: Distinctive bota-mochi* (dumpling-shaped) circular fire mark in the interior valley
• Kiln: Wood-fired at Bishuu-gama, Bizen
• Artist: Yamamoto Soshu (山本 宗秀), signature: on bowl and kiribako Included

*The bota-mochi mark is a hallmark of masterful Bizen firing. Created when another clay object shields part of the bowl from ash during firing, it leaves a subtle circular trace—an intentional and poetic imperfection cherished in tea culture.

This piece reflects the spirit of Wabi-Sabi and is an ideal match for the Tea Ceremony or as part of a serious ceramic collection.