{"product_id":"shoraku-sasaki-red-raku-kotobuki-matcha-bowl-pre-owned","title":"Shoraku Sasaki Red Raku Matcha Bowl \"Kotobuki\" with Flowing Charcoal Glaze — Pre‑owned","description":"\u003cp\u003eAka Raku Ware Tea Bowl by Shōraku Sasaki\u003cbr\u003eWith Zen Calligraphy by Etsudō Takahashi, Former Abbot of Daitoku-ji\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis Aka Raku (red Raku) tea bowl was crafted by Shōraku Sasaki, a ceramic artist working within the esteemed Raku tradition—long treasured in the Japanese tea ceremony for its direct hand-forming process and intimate dialogue between clay, fire, and spirit.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe bowl is accompanied by an original hakogaki (box inscription) written by Etsudō Takahashi, former abbot of Daitoku-ji, one of Kyoto’s most revered Zen temples. Such an inscription firmly situates the piece within the spiritual and cultural lineage of chanoyu.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe chawan bears the title “Kotobuki” (寿), meaning “Longevity” or “Felicity.” The word *kotobuki* conveys auspicious blessings, celebration, and wishes for a long and peaceful life. In the context of the tea ceremony, it reflects a spirit of gratitude, harmony, and continued prosperity—sentiments often associated with joyful gatherings and meaningful occasions.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAka Raku tea bowls are admired for their warm, earthy red tones and soft, tactile surface. When held, they offer a gentle warmth that enhances the contemplative experience of tea. The subtly irregular form embodies the wabi aesthetic, where beauty is found in natural variation, restraint, and quiet depth.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis piece is offered in very good pre-owned condition and has been carefully preserved. It is well suited for use in tea gatherings as well as for collectors who value Zen-inscribed Raku ware that unites craftsmanship, auspicious symbolism, and the timeless spirit of the Japanese tea ceremony.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Shōraku Sasaki \/ Etsudō Takahashi","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45785076924612,"sku":"Raku-1-mari","price":283.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0560\/9409\/7604\/files\/7603944_637.jpg?v=1771983665","url":"https:\/\/narateacompany.com\/ja\/products\/shoraku-sasaki-red-raku-kotobuki-matcha-bowl-pre-owned","provider":"Nara Tea Co.","version":"1.0","type":"link"}