This listing is for a very pleasant Kyo-ware chawan made around 30 years ago by Kato Tozan.  It is wheel-thrown and decorated with a hand-painted hyotan design.  The kanji on the hyotan reads as ‘ko’ . The hyotan, or gourd in English, is an auspicious symbol thought to represent longevity and magical power.   Gourds were traditionally portrayed as magical tools for capturing giant catfish, because according to Japanese folklore, earthquakes were caused by thrashing about of these giant fish.  It’s a beautiful piece, and the signature of the potter can be found on the bottom.  *PLEASE NOTE THAT THE CHASEN TEA WHISK IS NOT INCLUDED.

Kato Tozan (b.Kenji 1950) is a Kyo-ware and Kiyomizu-ware potter who produces Ninsei style and celadon glazed vessels. He primarily produces teaware, and his hand-painted pieces often depict the seasons or special celebrations in Japan. **Fellow sellers, this information was researched by Kominka Zakka and CANNOT be used in your own listings.

Kyo-ware originated in the 17th century in Kyoto and features overglaze enamel pigments on a porcelain base. The porcelain base acts as white canvas, allowing for beautiful and superior quality designs to be painted. Kyo-ware artisans traditionally produced chawan and utensils for the tea ceremony, however contemporary potters specialize in tableware, tea ceremony items, incense holders, and okimono. Kyo-ware was designated as a traditional craft in 1977.

Size

H.7.4cm (2.9”) x Dia.12.8cm (5”)

Condition

It’s in very good condition with no chips or cracks, however there are very light tea stains on interior, and a brown glaze spot.

THESE ARE SHIPPING ESTIMATES BASED ON THE CURRENT GLOBAL SITUATION                                                                 

**Germany, France, Greece, Spain, Poland, Austria, Slovakia, Lithuania, Slovenia:  NO SHIPPING.  Very strict and expensive packaging laws in place and we are not licensed to send products to these countries.  We have no plan to register at this time because the process is in some cases very expensive and complicated, plus each country has its own set of regulations and application process. 

**USA, UK, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Switzerland, Norway: Airmail Small Packet (approx. 15-28 days).  Combined shipping available up to 2kgs for Airmail Small Packet (please send us a message).

**Asia:  Airmail Small Packet (approx. 15-21 days).  Combined shipping available up to 2kgs for Airmail Small Packet (please send us a message).

**Central Asia, Middle East, South Africa, Brazil, Mexico:  EMS Express 10-15 days.

**Russia:  No shipping methods available.