Nakazato Tarouemon XIV
Chosen Tea Cup
Description
An elegant cup with a vivid contrast of brown and white glazes made by the kiln of Master Nakazato Tarouemon XVI and under his direct supervision, using the Chosen Karatsu style, originating from Korea. Sold in a wooden box decorated with hand calligraphy, for a special gift.
Chosen Karatsu refers to ware glazed with both a high iron ash glaze (black to amber) and a rice straw ash glaze(white), applied separately top/bottom or left/right on the ware. The contrast of white and brown glazes is striking and generates a waterfall effect of white, blue, purple, and yellow where the glazes melt together.
This flow is a defining characteristic of Chosen Karatsu ware. These changes occurring on the surface of the ware are unpredictable and reminiscent of natural landscapes. In the world of tea ceremony, these landscapes are treasured.
As a result, there are may Chosen Karatsu mizusashi (water containers), hanaire (flower vases), tokkuri (flasks), etc. used as tea ceremony accessories.
Dimensions
Height: 7.6 cm
Diameter: 8.4 cm
Capacity: 140ml
Artist Information
Nakazato Tarouemon XIV
Born in 1957, Nakazato Tarouemon XIV, currently the Nakazato family's 14th generation, inherits the rich legacy of Karatsu ceramics and of his family. Surrounded by Karatsu ware from the day he was born, he took over his family's kiln in 1983. He soon came to realize how much brilliant work exists in old Karatsu ware. Today, he works daily to keep the tradition alive and make the unique beauty of Karatsu ware better known overseas.
The Nakazato kiln has been in activity since the end of the 16th century in what is today Karatsu city in Saga prefecture, facing the Korean peninsula.
