This elegant Kyo-yaki hira chawan (flat, summer style matcha bowl) is made in the classic Kohiki (粉引) style, covered in white slip save for a hima (火間 - fire space): a narrow wedge that is intentionally left uncovered by slip, showing the bare clay underneath. Its flat, wide shape is ideal for use in warmer months where it allows the tea to cool quickly.

Like most kohiki wares, this chawan is porous and will absorb water and tea and subtly change colour over time. Before its first use, we recommend soaking the entire piece in warm water for at least one hour. This allows water to fill the cracks and pores, slowing the rate at which tea stains the clay. Slowing the staining process allows the colour change to progress naturally and beautifully. With each subsequent, we suggest rinsing the bowl with hot water before preparing tea in it, as you would with any chawan.

Kohiki is a traditional slipware ceramic style that originated in the short-lived Buncheong Deombeongi ceramics of late 15th century Korea. In an attempt to create an affordable mimicry of Chinese white porcelain, iron-rich clay was dipped in white slip (liquified clay) and covered with a translucent ash glaze. Korean kohiki chawan were brought to Japan, where they were revered as masterpieces (名物) by tea masters. Recently, this rustic style has seen a resurgence in popularity owing to its timeless, natural elegance. Compared to the harsh white of porcelain, kohiki vessels have a soft, warm, and organic feel.

Made by Yohei Nakamura (中村与平). Born in 1959, Nakamura-san is a prolific potter, producing hundreds of beautiful and affordable tea ceremony utensils across a range of styles.


Kyo-yaki (京焼) is a type of Japanese pottery that traditionally comes from Kyoto, Japan. The pottery traditions of Kyoto date back to the 5th century and are varied in their styles.

Dimensions:

14.5cm (5.7in) - width
5.6cm (2.2in) - height
250ml - capacity

Condition: New

This Japanese item ships from the United States.