Nakmura Donen (1876-1937) Antique AKA-RAKU tea bowl #5584

width: approx. 11.4cm (4.5in)

height: approx. 8cm (3.1in)

weight: 281g (w/ box 466g)

condition: Very Good

Accessories: Original wooden box (Tomobako)

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

The key highlight of this piece lies in the dramatic interplay of the warm red clay texture and the thick, expressive white glaze overlay. The white glaze visually depicts the peaceful ambiance of a remote mountain village enveloped in heavy snowfall. The natural contrast between the earthy tones and the crisp glaze creates a mesmerizing visual rhythm that captures the wabi-sabi essence of traditional Japanese matcha tea ceremony.

Ideal for tea gatherings (chakai) and tea rituals, this bowl serves as a fantastic conversation starter for the host (teishu) and guests. It bridges the history of early Showa-era ceramics with fine Japanese painting, allowing for rich dialogue on seasonal motifs, nature's beauty, and classical Japanese aesthetic appreciation. A truly captivating centerpiece for collector's matcha tea accessories and practice.

Nakamura Donen
1876-1937
male
raku pottery

Originally, he studied pottery under the 4th generation Dohachi in Kyoto, but he visited and trained in various regions throughout the country as well as Korea and China. Afterwards, he came to Nagoya due to an invitation from Takamatsu Sadaichi, a wealthy merchant there, and he began to create pottery in the same area. He often produced Raku ware and Joseon style tea pottery. He passed away due to illness at 62 years of age.
Around the time of the second generation, Sokuchusai Sosa of the Omotesenke school, gave the name, Yagoto kiln. The fifth generation is currently active.