Steven Branfman, American (b. 1953)

A Raku Chawan (#1603)

2025  

About the work

Steven Branfman’s raku chawan presents a compact, grounded form with a softly irregular rim that emphasizes its hand formed character. The bowl is divided visually by a strong horizontal transition, where a creamy off white glaze with fine crackle and subtle tonal warmth meets a deep charcoal black lower section. Along this boundary, clusters of raised, bead like textures emerge, creating a tactile rhythm that suggests mineral accretions or eroded stone surfaces.

The surface bears clear evidence of the raku process, with crackling, blistering, and tonal variation shaped by fire and reduction. The interior is lighter and gently crazed, offering a quiet contrast to the darker exterior and reinforcing the sense of inward volume central to Branfman’s work. The overall effect is restrained yet expressive, balancing simplicity of form with richly articulated surface.

Dimensions

8.3cm(h) x 10.2cm(w)

Footnote

Steven Branfman received his Masters Degree from Rhode Island School Of Design in 1975 and has earned an international reputation as a clay artist. In 1977 he founded The Potters Shop and School in Needham, Massachusetts, USA, and has taught widely, including at Thayer Academy in Massachusetts since 1978. A member of the International Academy Of Ceramics, he has also held significant roles in several ceramics organizations. His Raku ware has been exhibited internationally and is included in collections such as the American Museum Of Ceramic Art and The Alfred Ceramic Art Museum. Branfman is the author of four books and a sought after workshop presenter in the United States and worldwide.