Created from the union of the craftsmans’ hands, nature, and centuries of ceramic tradition; this bowl, though it may appear to be an artifact of an era long past, is a contemporary creation from the master ceramicist Tsuruno Keiji. Inspired by the traditions surrounding porcelain creations from the Joseon Dynasty of Korea (1392-1910) and Mashiko pottery from the Tochigi Prefecture where he creates, Tsuruno developed his own practice by deeply understanding those traditions with each of the five senses. Collecting clays and glaze components from the earth, the vessels that he makes from those raw materials get fired in a wood burning kiln. Each piece is completely unique as the collected earth goes through it’s transformation by the hands of the craftsman, to the fires of the kiln, to the home where it will live and be cherished. Trusting in the power of the clay and fire,, the lack of uniformity and predictability that are often sought after in contemporary ceramic works, become the strength and beauty of his pieces.
When this bowl first entered the collection of Misako, she was invited to a private event where each guest brought their favorite bowl and the featured master chef would prepare a flavorful experience inspired by the piece. This tea bowl inspired the chef to create a rich hojicha latte with the powdered tea dusted lightly over the top. The warmth and richness combined with its balanced simplicity, perfectly complemented and mirrored those same qualities in the bowl in which it was served. Tsuruno was a guest of honor at this event. He was so enamored by the preparation, that he asked Misako to borrow his own creation back for a little while. He requested that the hojicha latte be made again so he too could experience the added sensory component that his work inspired.
Tsuruno Keiji’s ceramic works invite you to be inspired and to let them be the vessel for a story of the senses. The craftsperson and all stewards of this bowl become a part of the ongoing story. What will this white glazed tea bowl inspire you to fill it with?