2027 Zodiac Sheep Raku Matcha Bowl – “Sheep in a Dream”

Raku Matcha Bowl – “Sheep in a Dream” (夢の中の羊) by Rakunyu Yoshimura

Artist: Rakunyu Yoshimura III (三代 吉村楽入)
Design: Sheep in a Dream (夢の中の羊)
Style: Raku-yaki (Traditional Japanese Raku Pottery)
Type: Chawan – Japanese Matcha Tea Bowl
Packaging: Traditional Paulownia Wooden Box (Kiri-bako)
Origin: Kyoto, Japan

This charming Raku matcha bowl by Kyoto ceramic artist Rakunyu Yoshimura features a whimsical sheep-themed design titled “Sheep in a Dream.”

Created for the Year of the Sheep in 2027, the design evokes a peaceful, dreamlike world filled with warmth and gentle imagination.

The sheep (Hitsuji), the Japanese zodiac animal for 2027, symbolizes peace, harmony, and gentleness. This delightful bowl brings a playful yet elegant touch to New Year and Hatsugama tea gatherings.

About Rakunyu Yoshimura (吉村楽入)

Rakunyu Yoshimura is a distinguished Kyoto ceramic artist and the third-generation master of the Yoshimura Rakunyu pottery tradition.

Born in Kyoto in 1959, he studied ceramics at the Kyoto Municipal Industrial Research Institute and the Kyoto Prefectural Ceramic Training School before apprenticing under his father, the second-generation Rakunyu.

He succeeded to the name Rakunyu Yoshimura in 2004 and is also known by the name Manpukudo Rakunyu (萬福堂楽入).

In 2001, he was officially recognized as a Traditional Craftsman (Dento Kogeishi) for his expertise in Raku pottery. In 2011, he received the “Master Craftsman of the Future” recognition from the City of Kyoto.

Rakunyu Yoshimura is also a practitioner of the Omotesenke school of Japanese tea ceremony. His understanding of Chanoyu is reflected in his approach to creating tea bowls that are both beautiful and comfortable to use.

While preserving the traditional techniques of Raku pottery, he is also known for introducing creative painted designs, seasonal motifs, and contemporary expressions into his tea bowls.

His work brings together generations of Kyoto craftsmanship, the spirit of Chanoyu, and a distinctive artistic sensibility.

Traditional Raku Pottery

Raku-yaki originated in Kyoto during the time of Sen no Rikyu in the late 16th century and has been closely associated with the Japanese tea ceremony ever since.

Traditionally shaped by hand rather than on a potter's wheel, Raku tea bowls are admired for their natural forms, soft texture, and warmth when held.

The Yoshimura Rakunyu kiln continues this tradition while exploring new decorative expressions.

Perfect for New Year & Hatsugama

This “Sheep in a Dream” matcha bowl is especially suitable for New Year and Hatsugama (the first tea gathering of the year), celebrating the 2027 Year of the Sheep.

Presented in a traditional paulownia wooden box, it makes a thoughtful gift or a special addition to a Japanese tea ceremony collection.

Made in Kyoto, Japan.