Goryeo Dynasty (13th–14th century)
Tangible Cultural Property, designated by Yamagata Prefecture
Donated by the Homma family
Ōido Korean tea bowls of this era were often referred to as ido-chawan (lit. “well tea bowls”) because of their deep, well-like appearance. They were often categorized into three types: ōido (a large and dignified shape), aoido (straighter lines and a rough outer appearance) and koido (a smaller, curved shape). Covered with a thin loquat-coloured glaze, this particular Ōido tea bowl is on the larger side, with a bold, strong presence; the foot at the base is shaped like a section of bamboo. The area inside the bowl to the mouth shows traces of “kairagi” or “glaze shrinkage,” which has a crackled, grainy appearance. Tea masters regard this expressive feature as a highlight of Ōido tea bowls.
It was originally owned by the Sakai family of the Shōnai Domain — hence the inscription — and was later acquired by the Homma family.
In the chronicle Yamanoue Sōji ki by the eponymous disciple of 15th century tea master Sen no Rikyū, which describes Rikyū’s teachings and the state of contemporary tea practice, this bowl is described as the “finest Ōido Korean tea bowl under heaven,” and the most esteemed in wabi-cha style tea ceremony, a style of tea ceremony that emphasizes the spirit of simplicity.