Bizen Hand-Formed Bowl

This Bizen-ware *tebachi* (handled bowl) has just been fired in the kiln by Masao Akiya, a potter who studied under Living National Treasure Jun Isezaki and creates works brimming with a unique originality rooted in a modern spirit. This is the first new work from Masao Akiya in approximately two years since his last kiln opening. True to Mr. Akiya’s approach of aiming for craftsmanship that aligns with contemporary sensibilities—much like his mentor, Jun Isezaki—this piece features a design that is orthodox yet brilliantly refined. Rather than following the lineage of highly formal tea ceremony utensils, this handled bowl was created as an interesting and accessible item for everyday use. The handle is positioned quite high for practical use, ensuring it does not interfere with the presentation of food and remains easy to carry. The handle is crafted from clay rolled into a tube and shaped without distortion, reflecting the high level of skill Mr. Akiya brings to even the most subtle designs. Paper box
Diameter 22.5cm × Diameter 22.5cm × Height 16.6cm Masao Akiya was born in Saitama in 1968. He began his apprenticeship under Living National Treasure Jun Isezaki in 1998, and after ten years of training, he built his own kiln in Bizen and became independent in 2008. He held his first kiln opening in 2009. His work has been selected for the Tanabe Museum of Art's "Tea Ceremony Sculpture Exhibition" and the Japan Kōgei Association Chugoku Branch Exhibition, and he has received awards including the Okayama Prefectural Art Exhibition Prize and Encouragement Award.