Korean Joseon Dynasty Ido Tea Bowl, 16–17C #5310

width: approx. 14cm (5 33⁄64in)
height: approx. 7cm (2 3⁄4in)
weight: approx. 289g

This is an exquisite Ido tea bowl (Ido chawan) from the Joseon Dynasty of Korea, likely dating from the 16th to 17th century. Ido bowls are revered in the Japanese tea ceremony for their rustic simplicity and natural aesthetic, qualities deeply valued in the wabi-sabi philosophy. This example features a gently flared lip, soft beige tones with subtle gradients of warm iron-rich hues, and a finely crazed glaze that extends across the entire body, creating a nuanced visual texture. The thickly potted foot is especially remarkable, showing a deeply pooled glaze with pronounced crackling, a characteristic known as “kairagi,” prized among tea practitioners. The interior is modest and calm, with a slightly uneven surface that further emphasizes its handmade character. There are no significant chips or cracks, and it retains a harmonious presence imbued with centuries of age. As both a utilitarian object and a cultural artifact, this bowl reflects the refined aesthetic values of both Korean and Japanese traditions.