Rare 1980s Sasaki Shoraku Shimadai Chawan Tea Bowl Signed Box Japan

A remarkable example of modern Japanese tea ceremony artistry, this authentic Shimadai Chawan (島台茶碗) was created during the 1980s by renowned Kyoto potter Sasaki Shoraku, with the original storage box bearing the inscription and signature of respected Zen monk Kobayashi Taigen.

Finished in an elegant silver-toned Akaraku glaze, this tea bowl embodies the beauty and philosophy of the Japanese tea ceremony. The softly hand-formed shape, subtle crackle patterns, and luminous metallic surface create a refined presence that changes beautifully under different lighting.

Traditionally, Shimadai tea bowls are associated with auspicious tea gatherings and special celebrations. Their symbolic connection to prosperity, harmony, longevity, and good fortune has made them highly prized among tea practitioners for generations.

This piece was acquired directly from a Japanese government auction and remains a wonderful collector's example of late 20th-century Japanese ceramic craftsmanship.

Presented with its original signed wooden kiribako storage box and cloth, it is equally suitable for tea ceremony use, display, or inclusion in a serious Japanese pottery collection.

Whether displayed in a tea room, study, or private collection, this bowl carries both artistic beauty and cultural significance.

Highlights
✅ Authentic 1980s Japanese Shimadai Chawan
✅ Created by renowned Kyoto potter Sasaki Shoraku
✅ Original signed wooden box by Kobayashi Taigen
✅ Beautiful silver-toned Akaraku glaze
✅ Traditional tea ceremony vessel
✅ Includes original storage box and cloth
✅ Acquired from a Japanese Government Auction
✅ Rare collector's piece
✅ Suitable for tea ceremony or display
✅ Made in Japan

Additional Information About This Item
About Sasaki Shoraku

The Shoraku family is one of Kyoto's respected ceramic lineages, known for producing tea ceremony wares inspired by traditional Raku pottery. Their works are appreciated for their hand-shaped forms, elegant glazes, and strong connection to the aesthetics of chanoyu (Japanese tea ceremony).

About Kobayashi Taigen

Kobayashi Taigen is a highly respected Zen Buddhist monk associated with Daitoku-ji Temple in Kyoto. Tea utensils accompanied by his inscriptions or signatures are often sought after by collectors because they connect the piece to the spiritual traditions of Japanese tea culture.

What Is a Shimadai Chawan?

A Shimadai tea bowl is traditionally used during celebratory tea gatherings and special occasions. Historically, these bowls symbolize:

Prosperity
Longevity
Harmony
Good fortune
Auspicious beginnings

Because of this symbolism, Shimadai bowls are often treasured as heirloom-quality tea utensils.

About Akaraku Ware
Akaraku (Red Raku) is one of the most famous styles of Japanese tea ceramics. Originating in Kyoto, Raku ware is hand-formed rather than wheel-thrown, creating unique shapes and surfaces that embrace the principles of wabi-sabi—the beauty found in simplicity, imperfection, and age.

Condition
Very good vintage condition.
• No cracks or repairs observed
• Beautiful original glaze throughout
• Minor signs of age consistent with vintage Japanese ceramics
• Original signed wooden storage box included
• Please review all photographs carefully as they form part of the description
• Measurements are shown in the listing photos

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📦 Condition
Please review all photos carefully, as they form part of the item description. Dimensions and additional details are provided in the images.