Legendary Japanese Samurai Hero Matcha Bow

This matcha bowl, crafted by the renowned Kiyomizu-yaki and Kyo-yaki artisan Zensho Yamaoka, is a commemorative piece honoring Ryoma Sakamoto. The bowl features Sakamoto’s family crest at the front, complemented by bellflower motifs in the kasane-masu pattern.
Though a master swordsman with licenses in both the Oguri and Hokushin Ittō-ryū styles, Ryoma relied on a pistol in battle, including the one he is said to have carried during the 1866 Teradaya Incident.
The vivid overglaze painting on the white porcelain evokes the beauty of Japanese-style painting, showcasing the delicate brushwork unique to Kyo-yaki artisans. A finely crafted, exquisite matcha bowl celebrating one of Japan’s most iconic historical figures.

Ryoma Sakamoto was a legendary samurai and reformer who helped modernize Japan in 1836〜1867.

Dimensions:
Width 12.5 cm ( in) × Height 7.7 cm ( in)

About Kyo (Kiyomizu) Ware
Kyo-yaki, also known as Kiyomizu-yaki, is a traditional style of pottery that originated in Kyoto over 400 years ago, during the late 16th to early 17th century. Its defining characteristic is the freedom from fixed styles, embracing a wide range of decorative techniques and expressions. From delicate and ornate designs to simple and refined forms, Kyo-yaki offers great variety and is cherished both as tea utensils and as tableware for everyday use.