Wares made by Sasaki Shōraku (佐々木昭楽) of Shōraku Kiln (昭楽窯). This is the same Sasaki Shōraku that produces work signed (松楽), which is also read as Shōraku. Works stamped (松楽 - Shōraku) are more entry grade, whereas works stamped (昭楽 - Shōraku) are of a higher quality.
The current kiln is located in Kameoka, Kyōto and was built in 1944. That same year, Sasaki Shōraku was born, and after studying under his father, he became Shouraku III: the third generation to carry the title. His work emulates the early raku wares of Chojiro and Hon'ami Koetsu. Today, both the 3rd and 4th generation potters of the kiln are famous for their raku bowls.
