Raku Chawan by greatest Kichizaemon Kônyû with Omotesenke attestation

An impressive Kuro Raku Chawan made by the legendary 12th generation Kichizaemon Kônyû (1857-1932). The name of the Chawan is „Akebono“ - Sunrise.

His childhood name was Kozaburo, later became Kicho (or, Yoshinaga). He was the eldest son of Keinyu, the eleventh generation master. In 1871, he succeeded the family business and became the generation master. In 1919 he retired and took the name as Kônyû. He enjoyed his retirement in practicing tea ceremony and writing haiku. His Aka (red) Raku wares were famous for the dynamic use of spatula. He was also skillful at using double layering glazes for Kuro (black) Raku wares.

This superb bowl, made 100 years ago, is one of Kônyû’s finest and most iconic creations. It highlights his honed sense of proportion, tactility, and color balance with wonderful black glace and some delightful shades of red.

The seal of the potter is stamped on the bottom. The wooden box with the seal and the signature of the potter is also included. The reverse side of the lid shows the later added attestation and appraisal of OMOTESENKE 13th SOSA SEN (Sokuchusai). Sokuchusai Sosa (1901-1979) was the second son of 12th generation Seisai. Also named Sosa. His Buddhist names are Sokuchusai, Mujin and Seiyuken. He succeeded the family name in Showa 12 (1937) due to his elder brother's sudden death. He is well known for establishing the "Domonkai" in Showa 17 (1942) and publishing the "Domon" bulletin.

He named this Kuro Raku Chawan with its burning red shades „Akebono“ - Sunrise.

The bowl and the important wooden box are in perfect antique condition with no cracks or repairs.

Size: 7,9 cm height x 11,8 cm in diameter.