Shimmering Stripe Five-Sided Matcha Bowl

The Shimmering Stripe Five-Sided Matcha Bowl captures the natural texture of Bizen ware, its overall matte surface evoking a sense of refined delicacy. From a pentagonal foot, the form unfolds into five softly flowing panels, organically stretching upward to create balance between structure and spontaneity. 

The shimmering stripe pattern on the bowl’s surface, known as hidasuki, emerges from the areas where rice straw had been wrapped around the vessel during firing. Artist Mori Toshiaki, with his refined skill and deep experience, carefully adjusted the bowl’s placement within the kiln. By positioning it on the rear shelf of the firing chamber, where it was exposed to a semi-steaming environment, the piece acquired its distinctive matte texture. Within the kiln, every factor—the arrangement of the pieces, the inner temperature, and the movement of the flames—contributes to the outcome. Even when using the same kiln, Bizen ware reveals its unique charm in producing works of entirely different atmospheres, shaped by the subtle interplay of these elements.

In conceiving the overall design, Mori also drew upon the philosophical balance of yin and yang. Straight lines are seen as yin, while curves embody yang; even numbers signify yin, while odd numbers represent yang. On this piece, linear precision and flowing curves together become a tangible expression of that philosophy, harmonizing opposites into a unified form.

Mori brings a deep respect for tradition with a willingness to explore new possibilities. The bowl’s gentle, faceted sides and sculpted foot reveal his pursuit of balance—where intentional form meets the natural flow of chance. Left entirely unglazed, the piece depends on the kiln’s elemental alchemy and the artist’s seasoned touch, allowing fire itself to shape its final character. This chawan encourages a contemplative bond with the one who holds it. The raw Bizen clay subtly enriches the taste of the tea, while the vessel’s fluid lines and grounded form create a quiet space for reflection.

Mori Toshiaki

Among the esteemed lineages known as the Bizen Rokusei, or Six Ancient Kilns of Bizen ware, Hozan Kiln stands out as a venerable institution. Mori Toshiaki, the 19th-generation successor, masterfully upholds this rich tradition while pioneering new possibilities. Balancing his responsibilities at the kiln with his personal artistic pursuits, Mori conducts extensive research and explores innovative approaches in both shaping and firing techniques, pushing the boundaries of Bizen ware.

Bizen Ware

Bizen ware is a traditional stoneware produced in the Imbe area of Okayama Prefecture. It is one of the oldest ceramics in Japan, and is made using the yakishime technique, in which pieces are fired at high temperatures without glaze to make them durable and water-resistant.

Bizen ware is called "the art of clay and fire" for the exquisite colors and patterns produced by the kiln's flames, and is characterized by its minimalist, wabi sabi design.