Princess Yi Bangja (Rakuzensai) Pale Grey Korai Ware Matc (Rakuzensai) Signed

Rare Pale Grey Korai Ware Matcha Tea Bowl by Princess Yi Bangja (Rakuzensai) with Signed Box

This is a highly significant and rare example of Korai-yaki (Korean-style) pottery, handcrafted by Princess Yi Bangja (Princess Masako Nashimoto), the last Crown Princess of Korea. This specific bowl is notable for its exceptionally rare pale greyish-white glaze, a departure from the more common tones found in her work.

The bowl was created at her studio, Rakuzensai (楽善齋), as a commemorative piece. It is designed with a deep reverence for the "Honka" (original) Korean tea bowls favored by Japanese tea masters since the 16th century.

Key Features:

• Artisan & Royal Provenance: Princess Yi Bangja was a pivotal historical figure who dedicated her later life to social welfare and the preservation of traditional crafts. Her hand-painted signature is visible on the side of the bowl, and the original wooden box lid is fully inscribed and sealed by her.

• Aesthetic Rarity: The delicate, cool grey-white base color is seldom seen in her repertoire, making this a standout piece for collectors of her work.

• Tea Master's Details: The foot (Kodai) features a classic "Kairagi" (crawling glaze) texture, resembling sharkskin. True to the finest traditions, the center of the foot remains intentionally unglazed, a detail highly prized in the Japanese tea ceremony for its rustic, earthy appeal.

• Elegant Form: The bowl possesses a graceful, widening silhouette with subtle horizontal throwing marks that provide a wonderful tactile experience when held with both hands.

Size (Approx.):

• Diameter: 14.0 cm / 5.5 in

• Height: 7.5 cm / 3.0 in

• Weight: 293 g / 0.65 lbs

• Wooden Box: 18.0 x 18.0 x 12.5 cm

Condition: Excellent vintage condition. The bowl is well-preserved with a beautiful network of fine "kannyu" (crackle) under the glaze. The original wooden box (Tomobako) and the outer commemorative cardboard sleeve are included, showing minimal signs of age.

Please carefully inspect the high-resolution photos to appreciate the unique "Kairagi" texture at the base and the delicate royal signature.