Uraguchi Masayuki (浦口 雅行), Japanese, b. 1964

A Celadon Tea Bowl (青磁茶碗)

Showa Era (1926-1989), Heisei Era (1989-2019) or Reiwa Era (2019-present)

About the work

A finely formed celadon tea bowl by Masayuki Uraguchi, with gently rounded sides
rising from a compact foot to a subtly irregular rim. The restrained form provides an
elegant setting for Uraguchi's distinctive exploration of celadon glaze and surface.
The vessel is enveloped in a luminous pale blue green celadon glaze of considerable
depth and translucency. Across the surface runs a network of broad, irregular crackle,
creating an organic pattern that varies in scale and intensity around the bowl. The
restrained colour allows these subtle variations within the glaze to emerge gradually,
particularly as the vessel is viewed under changing light.
A fine brown line visible along the rim provides a subtle visual counterpoint to the cool
celadon body, while a similar warm tone appears around the foot. These details frame
the glaze and emphasise the bowl's simple profile. Inside, the celadon continues
uninterrupted, giving the vessel a serene and cohesive appearance.
Both functional as a chawan and sculptural in character, the bowl exemplifies the
quiet sophistication of contemporary Japanese celadon.

Dimensions

7.5cm(h) x 13.1cm(w) x 12.7cm(d)

Footnote

Uraguchi Masayuki, born in 1964 in Tokyo, found his inspiration during his studies at the Tokyo University of the Arts, where a National Treasure celadon vase sparked his lifelong passion for celadon glazing. He trained under Miura Koheiji, later refining his craft through extensive personal research, which included studying ancient Chinese ceramics firsthand. His work stands out for its innovative glazes and attention to detail, blending traditional influences with his distinctive, modern interpretation.