08/10/2026
Hagi Ware Matcha Bowl by Takashi Masush*ta
A Japanese Hagi ware matcha bowl by ceramic artist Takashi Masush*ta (味舌隆司, b. 1952).
The bowl features a warm ochre-toned glaze over reddish-brown clay, with fine kannyu (crazing) and subtle variations in tone and luster. Its gently irregular rim, rounded body, and exposed clay around the foot emphasize the earthy, handmade character of the piece.
With repeated use, Hagi ware absorbs moisture and undergoes subtle expansion and contraction. Over time, the crazing may become finer and tea gradually penetrates these lines, changing the color and character of the surface. This evolving beauty is traditionally known as Hagi no Nanabake (萩の七化け), or “The Seven Transformations of Hagi.”
Of particular interest is the accompanying wooden storage box bearing calligraphy by Etsudō Takahashi (高橋悦道), associated with the Daitoku-ji Zen tradition.