Antique Japanese Karatsu Tea Bowl Chawan Kihara Kiln Distorted Shape Box PCP277

■ Description A. Introduction Step into the world of "Wabi-sabi" with this intriguing antique Japanese Tea Bowl (Chawan). While the accompanying wooden box is inscribed as "Karatsu Chawan", the style and clay suggest it is likely a piece from the Kihara Kiln (Kihara-yaki), a historic kiln in the Hizen region closely related to the Old Karatsu tradition.

B. "Karatsu" Style & Kihara Identity

• The Box Inscription: The wooden box bears the calligraphy "Karatsu Chawan" (唐津茶碗). This reflects how collectors have traditionally cherished this piece within the broad and popular category of Karatsu ware.

• Kihara Characteristics: The specific glaze tone, the clay texture, and the bold, distorted shape point to the Kihara kiln (near Arita/Sasebo). Kihara ware is often collected by connoisseurs as a unique branch of the Karatsu/Hizen family.

• Shape: The bowl features a dramatic, intentionally warped form, possibly resembling a "Kutsu-gata" (Clog/Shoe shape) or a spouted vessel. This irregularity is the heart of the tea ceremony aesthetic.

C. Glaze & Texture

• The bowl is coated in a thick, glassy glaze with a subtle green-gray hue, featuring a beautiful network of crackles (Kannyu) that have darkened with age, adding depth to the surface.

• The unglazed foot shows the rugged clay characteristic of the Hizen area.

D. Size & Weight

• Width: 12.6 cm x 7.5 cm / 4.96 in x 2.95 in (Oval/Irregular)

• Height: 8.0 cm / 3.15 in

• Weight: 285 g / 0.63 lbs

• Total Weight (with Box): 550 g / 1.21 lbs

E. Condition Condition: Antique / Repaired (Wabi-sabi) This item has been cherished and used over a long period.

• Repairs: There are visible lacquer/gold repairs (Kintsugi style) on the rim and near the base. These old repairs are stable and are considered "Landscapes" (Keshiki) that add value to the bowl's story.

• General: Please expect kiln effects and signs of age consistent with an excavated or heirloom piece.

F. Conclusion Whether you view it as a unique Karatsu or a rare Kihara, this tea bowl possesses a powerful presence. The box's inscription adds to its provenance, making it a fascinating study piece for collectors of Japanese ceramics.