Deguchi Onisaburo (1871-1948) Vintage YOWAN Raku teabowl #5556

width: approx. 10.9cm (4.3in)

height: approx. 8.1cm (3.2in)

weight: approx. 487g

condition: Very good

Accessories: None

Shipping: Shipped from Japan with a tracking number. We take great care in professional packaging to ensure the item arrives safely.

This is a rare and highly spiritual Japanese Raku chawan (tea bowl) crafted by Deguchi Onisaburo, the charismatic spiritual leader of the Oomoto movement and a visionary artist known for his avant-garde ceramic works, famously referred to as "Yowan" .

For collectors of fine Japanese tea ceremony utensils (chado / sado gear), this Matcha bowl showcases an extraordinary "Yukei" (glaze scenery). The surface features a dramatic and vibrant layering of green and yellow glazes that blend organically, evoking the raw energy of nature. Departing from the muted tones of traditional Raku ware, Deguchi Onisaburo’s bold color palette reflects his profound spiritual and artistic philosophy.

The hand-molded (tedukune) form offers an exquisite, organic asymmetry that fits comfortably in the hands of the practitioner, allowing one to appreciate the rich texture of the clay (tsuchiaji) near the foot (kodai). This authentic Japanese pottery piece bridges the world of spiritual art and the traditional tea ceremony. It serves as a magnificent centerpiece for chakai (tea gatherings), guaranteed to inspire deep appreciation and engaging conversation during the utensil inspection (haiken). Perfect for tea masters, Zen practitioners, and collectors of unique antique Japanese ceramics.

Deguchi Onisaburo

1871-1948
male

Born in Kameoka, Kyoto Prefecture. He was called a child prodigy from an early age, and had a peculiar psychic ability. Following an oracle, he became a subordinate of the founder of the Omoto religion, Nao Deguchi in Ayabe, in the northern part of Kyoto prefecture, and together taught as leaders to salvation. Subsequently, he became the second teacher. Married Sumiko (the youngest child), and worked hard to further develop the Omoto religion as a psychic.
In addition, he left behind a huge number of works of art, such as writing, calligraphy, pottery, poetry and songs, which he independently studied, claiming that “art is a mother that gives birth to religion.” He is especially well-known in pottery, having meticulously hand-crafted 3,000 Yowan tea cups, which are known for their bright colors.