{"product_id":"bizen-ware-kensui-by-toho-kimura-japanese-tea-ceremony-bowl-matcha-slop-bowl-vintage-wabi-sabi-pottery-handcrafted-clay-art-japanese","title":"Bizen Ware Kensui by Toho Kimura | Japanese Tea Ceremony Bowl | Matcha Slop Bowl | Vintage Wabi Sabi Pottery | Handcrafted Clay Art Japanese","description":"\u003cp\u003eThe Story Behind This Piece:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNestled quietly in the mountainous region of northern Hiroshima Prefecture, there stands a traditional Japanese folk house with a history spanning well over a century. When the heavy, weathered doors of the storehouse located deep within the estate were carefully opened, this Bizen ware Kensui (water waste bowl), crafted by the revered artisan Kimura Toho, emerged from a dust-covered wooden box, exuding a quiet yet overwhelming presence. Created in the vibrant era of the mid-Showa period, likely during Japan's rapid economic growth in the 1970s, this vessel was born through masterful craftsmanship and represents the pinnacle of unglazed, high-fire pottery. The accidental beauty born from the union of earth and fire has deepened with the passage of decades, embodying the authentic spirit of wabi-sabi that is nearly impossible to replicate in the modern day. This exquisite Kensui encapsulates the memories of a time when daily life was rich with aesthetic sensibilities and intellectual pursuits within that historical house.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe original owner of this Bizen ware piece was a prominent intellectual and the master of the estate, who served as the central figure of a cultural salon in the region. During that golden era, local writers, artists, and tea masters would frequently gather at the residence, engaging in deep conversations about art and philosophy that lasted through the night. What the master cherished above all was the art of Chanoyu (the Japanese tea ceremony), which allowed him to appreciate the shifting seasons through all five senses, and this Kensui was treated with the utmost care as an indispensable protagonist on the tatami mats. The striking ochre-colored design adorning the surface reminiscent of the natural ash glaze finish, where flying wood ash melts into glass at extreme temperatures inside the kiln. The bold, organic indentation on the side is a calculated thumb-rest design, allowing the user's fingers to fit into the vessel with surprising comfort the moment it is held, making it a masterpiece of high Mingei (folk art) value that prioritizes functional beauty.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHowever, as the decades rolled on, the Japanese lifestyle underwent rapid modernization. With the natural transition of generations, the grand tea gatherings and vibrant salon activities at the estate gradually wound down. As the center of daily living shifted from traditional tatami rooms to Western-style flooring, the daily ritual of whisking matcha became a rare occurrence. Consequently, this Kensui, steeped in rich memories, was carefully wrapped in oil paper along with other precious tea utensils and placed deep within the storehouse of the ancient house in northern Hiroshima. This was not the end of its story, but rather the beginning of a long hibernation, waiting for a future custodian who would once again understand and cherish its functional beauty. In the absolute silence and darkness of the storehouse, the dense, unglazed clay characteristic of Bizen ware breathed in the subtle humidity and shifting air of Japan's four seasons for nearly half a century, refining its profound character and dignity.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn the modern era, sparked by a sustainable project dedicated to preserving traditional Japanese culture and passing it down to the next generation through a mindful clearing of old storehouses, this Kensui was called back into the light of the contemporary world after decades of slumber. As the renovation of the historic folk house progressed, people were astonished by the undiminished energy of handcrafted labor and the vintage beauty radiating from this vessel—qualities that can never be replicated in today's age of mass production. The crisp, authentic maker's mark consisting of the character \"Toho\" enclosed in a circle is clearly stamped on the base, standing as a proud testament to the artisan's dedication and heritage. This release from the storehouse is far more than the discovery of an old object; it is a profound bridge that connects timeless Japanese aesthetics with today's sustainable lifestyles.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn modern interior design, the Mingei value and distinct textural presence of this Bizen Kensui bring an incredible depth and artistic contrast to contemporary spaces. While it excels in its original function as a tea ceremony utensil, its wide, generous form allows it to be reimagined as a dramatic flower vase for seasonal branches in a modern living room, or as a sophisticated interior object on a study desk. The rich contrast between the dark, time-softened clay and the dynamic, natural ash-like glaze creates an ever-changing beauty depending on the angle of the light. Welcoming this vintage masterpiece into your home means creating a serene space amidst the hustle and bustle of daily life, offering you the luxurious experience of savoring the essence of authentic Japanese wabi-sabi with all your senses.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCondition \u0026amp; Notes:\u003cbr\u003ePlease note before purchasing.\u003cbr\u003eThis is a vintage or antique item sold as-is.\u003cbr\u003eDue to age and long-term storage, natural signs of wear and aging may be present, including:\u003cbr\u003e* small scratches or scuffs\u003cbr\u003e* fading or discoloration\u003cbr\u003e* glaze irregularities or imperfections\u003cbr\u003e* crackling (crazing), kiln marks, or gold wear\u003cbr\u003e* slight warping or age-related changes in wooden parts\u003cbr\u003eVintage and antique items may also carry natural storage-related scents from wood, paper, lacquer, smoke, or long-term preservation environments.\u003cbr\u003eThese characteristics are part of the individuality, historical character, and quiet beauty that vintage Japanese items carry.\u003cbr\u003eThey are not flaws, but the gentle traces of time.\u003cbr\u003eWe kindly ask for your understanding that vintage and antique items differ from newly manufactured products.\u003cbr\u003eWe do our best to show all notable details in the photos, but some small imperfections may not be fully visible.\u003cbr\u003ePlease review the dimensions carefully before purchasing, as photos may make items appear larger or smaller depending on display settings and shooting conditions.\u003cbr\u003ePlease note that colors may appear slightly different depending on lighting conditions and screen settings.\u003cbr\u003eOnly the items shown in the photos are included unless otherwise stated.\u003cbr\u003eDisplay stands, decorative props, or accessories used for photography are not included unless explicitly stated.\u003cbr\u003eThank you for appreciating the character and spirit of these timeworn pieces.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDimensions:\u003cbr\u003eHeight: 10.1 cm (3.98 in)\u003cbr\u003eDepth: 16.2 cm (6.38 in)\u003cbr\u003eWidth: 16.2 cm (6.38 in)\u003cbr\u003eBase: 8.5 cm (3.35 in)\u003cbr\u003eMaximum Circumference: 52.1 cm (20.51 in)\u003cbr\u003eWeight: 595 g (20.99 oz)\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eShipping Information:\u003cbr\u003eAll items are shipped from Hiroshima, Japan.\u003cbr\u003eShipping costs are not included in the product price and will be calculated and charged separately at checkout.\u003cbr\u003eOrders are usually dispatched within 3–5 business days after payment is confirmed.\u003cbr\u003eFor shipments to the United States, we use DHL Express with full tracking and insurance.\u003cbr\u003eFor all other available destinations, orders are generally shipped via Japan Post EMS with tracking and insurance.\u003cbr\u003eThe shipping method may be changed when necessary depending on the destination, package size, service availability, and shipping conditions.\u003cbr\u003eEach item is carefully packed with protective materials to help ensure safe delivery.\u003cbr\u003eEstimated delivery time is approximately 7–14 business days. Delivery times may vary depending on customs procedures, local delivery conditions, weather disruptions, customs inspections, and other circumstances beyond our control.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eInternational Buyers – Duties, VAT \u0026amp; Taxes:\u003cbr\u003eShipments to the United States\u003cbr\u003eFor shipments to the United States, shipping costs and import customs duties are not included in the displayed product price.\u003cbr\u003eShipping costs will be calculated and charged separately at checkout.\u003cbr\u003eApplicable import duties and other import-related charges will be calculated and collected separately during checkout where supported by our checkout system.\u003cbr\u003eState and local taxes, including Sales Tax, may also be calculated and collected at checkout according to applicable regulations.\u003cbr\u003eThe total amount shown at checkout may therefore include:\u003cbr\u003ethe product price\u003cbr\u003eshipping costs\u003cbr\u003eapplicable import duties\u003cbr\u003eapplicable state or local taxes\u003cbr\u003eIf any customs duties, customs processing fees, carrier handling fees, brokerage fees, taxes, or other import-related charges are not collected at checkout, they may be collected separately by DHL or the relevant customs authority before or upon delivery.\u003cbr\u003eShipments Outside the United States\u003cbr\u003eFor shipments outside the United States, shipping costs, import duties, VAT, GST, consumption taxes, customs processing fees, carrier handling fees, and other local import-related charges are not included in the displayed product price.\u003cbr\u003eShipping costs will be calculated and charged separately at checkout.\u003cbr\u003eOrders are generally shipped via Japan Post EMS.\u003cbr\u003eImport duties, VAT, GST, consumption taxes, customs clearance fees, postal handling fees, carrier fees, and other local import-related charges are the responsibility of the buyer.\u003cbr\u003eThese charges may be collected before or upon delivery by Japan Post EMS, the local postal service, the relevant customs authority, or another local delivery provider.\u003cbr\u003eThe amount and collection method are determined by the laws, regulations, and customs procedures of the destination country.\u003cbr\u003eFor many international orders, VAT, GST, customs duties, and import-related processing fees are collected at the time of delivery.\u003cbr\u003ePlease note that payment of the product price and shipping cost does not mean that import duties, VAT, GST, or other local import-related charges have been paid.\u003cbr\u003eWe do not mark items as gifts or declare a value lower than the actual purchase price for customs purposes.\u003cbr\u003ePlease ensure that your shipping address, telephone number, email address, and other contact information are accurate and complete.\u003cbr\u003eIf a package is returned due to an incorrect or incomplete address, unpaid customs duties, unpaid VAT\/GST, unpaid import-related charges, refusal of delivery, or failed delivery attempts, the original shipping cost, return shipping cost, customs-related charges, and any reshipping costs will be the buyer’s responsibility.\u003cbr\u003eInternational deliveries may occasionally experience delays due to customs procedures, inspections, local postal conditions, or other circumstances beyond our control.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDamage During Shipping:\u003cbr\u003eIn the unlikely event that your item arrives damaged, please contact us within 10 days of delivery and provide clear photos of:\u003cbr\u003e* the damaged item\u003cbr\u003e* the outer shipping box\u003cbr\u003e* the inside packaging condition\u003cbr\u003e* the shipping label\u003cbr\u003ePlease keep all packaging materials and the damaged item until the shipping carrier completes its investigation.\u003cbr\u003eMinor imperfections consistent with the age and nature of vintage or antique items are not considered shipping damage.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eReturns \u0026amp; Refunds:\u003cbr\u003eAll items are vintage or antique and sold as-is.\u003cbr\u003eDue to the nature of vintage and antique items, we generally do not accept returns, cancellations, or refunds except where required by applicable law or covered by shipping insurance.\u003cbr\u003eReturns or refunds are not accepted for reasons such as:\u003cbr\u003e* change of mind\u003cbr\u003e* customs delays\u003cbr\u003e* minor differences in condition\u003cbr\u003e* color differences\u003cbr\u003e* texture variations\u003cbr\u003e* size impression differences\u003cbr\u003e* natural signs of age and wear\u003cbr\u003eHowever, if severe loss or damage during shipping is officially confirmed through the shipping carrier’s insurance investigation, we will respond within the scope of the applicable insurance coverage.\u003cbr\u003eFor customers in the United Kingdom and European Union, applicable consumer protection laws, statutory cancellation rights, and cooling-off rights will take precedence where required by law.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSafety \u0026amp; Usage:\u003cbr\u003eThese items are decorative vintage or antique pieces intended for adult collectors.\u003cbr\u003eThey are not toys and are not suitable for direct food use.\u003cbr\u003eVintage ceramics may contain historical materials, pigments, or glazes that do not meet modern food safety standards.\u003cbr\u003eWe cannot guarantee suitability for use with modern food or beverages, or for use in a dishwasher, microwave, oven, over direct heat, or for direct cooking.\u003cbr\u003ePlease enjoy these items as decorative objects that bring quiet beauty and history into your space.\u003cbr\u003eHandle with care and avoid prolonged exposure to moisture, direct sunlight, or heat.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLiability Disclaimer:\u003cbr\u003eTo the fullest extent permitted by applicable law, we cannot be held responsible for accidents, damage, allergic reactions, injury, loss, or other issues resulting from the improper use, handling, aging, restoration, transportation, display, or storage of vintage or antique items.\u003cbr\u003eAll products are sold as decorative vintage collectibles.\u003cbr\u003eCustomers are responsible for the appropriate handling, display, use, and storage of each item.\u003cbr\u003eNothing in this disclaimer excludes or limits any rights or remedies that cannot legally be excluded under applicable consumer protection laws.\u003cbr\u003eBy completing your purchase, you acknowledge that you have reviewed and accepted the product description, condition information, safety information, and applicable terms.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAdditional Notes by Region:\u003cbr\u003e■ United States\u003cbr\u003eFor shipments to the United States, import customs duties are not included in the displayed product price.\u003cbr\u003eApplicable import duties will be calculated and collected separately at checkout where supported.\u003cbr\u003eShipping costs are also calculated and charged separately at checkout.\u003cbr\u003eState and local taxes, including Sales Tax, may be calculated and collected at checkout according to applicable regulations.\u003cbr\u003eCalifornia Proposition 65\u003cbr\u003eSome vintage items may contain historical materials such as natural lacquer, pigments, metals, ceramics, or antique finishes.\u003cbr\u003eThis notice is provided for informational purposes only.\u003cbr\u003e■ European Union\u003cbr\u003eOur shop does not include EU import VAT, customs duties, customs clearance fees, handling charges, or other import-related charges in the displayed product price.\u003cbr\u003eThese charges may be collected before or upon delivery by Japan Post EMS, the local postal service, or the relevant customs authority.\u003cbr\u003eThese charges are the responsibility of the buyer.\u003cbr\u003eApplicable consumer protection rights under EU law remain unaffected.\u003cbr\u003e■ United Kingdom\u003cbr\u003eFor eligible orders, Etsy may collect UK VAT at checkout in accordance with applicable UK regulations.\u0026amp;nbsp;\u003cbr\u003eFor higher-value orders, import VAT, customs duties, and any applicable handling fees may be collected upon delivery.\u0026amp;nbsp;\u003cbr\u003eThe buyer will be considered the importer of record for customs purposes.\u0026amp;nbsp;\u003cbr\u003eThis product is intended for decorative use only and is not suitable for food contact.\u0026amp;nbsp;\u003cbr\u003eUK Authorised Representative: Pointblank Promotions Ltd London, United Kingdom This product is shipped directly from Japan.\u0026amp;nbsp;\u003cbr\u003eThe buyer is responsible for all import procedures and will be the importer of record for customs purposes.\u003cbr\u003e■ Switzerland, Singapore, Taiwan, and Thailand\u003cbr\u003eImport duties, VAT, GST, customs processing fees, handling fees, postal fees, carrier fees, or other import-related charges may apply according to local regulations.\u003cbr\u003eThese charges may be collected before or upon delivery and are the responsibility of the buyer.\u003cbr\u003eFor customers in Taiwan:\u003cbr\u003eRegistration with the EZ WAY app may be required for customs clearance.\u003cbr\u003e■ Hong Kong\u003cbr\u003eHong Kong does not generally impose VAT or GST on imported goods at present.\u003cbr\u003eHowever, customs clearance fees, postal handling fees, carrier fees, or other charges may apply depending on the shipment and delivery conditions.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eContact Us:\u003cbr\u003eIf you have any questions regarding our items, shipping, intended use, dimensions, condition, or import charges, please feel free to contact us before purchasing.\u003cbr\u003eWe are happy to assist you and will do our best to respond as promptly as possible.\u003cbr\u003eThank you for considering a piece from our kura. Each item carries a quiet story shaped by time in Japan.\u003cbr\u003eThis piece is part of our curated collection discovered in rural Japan.\u003cbr\u003eOn our official website, we share:\u003cbr\u003e– the story of the kura, or traditional Japanese storehouse, where this item was discovered\u2028– background on how similar objects were once used in everyday Japanese life\u2028– exclusive collections and pieces not listed elsewhere\u003cbr\u003eWe hope these objects will continue their quiet journey with you.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"meguru","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":60257502036254,"sku":"A01-326","price":17138.0,"currency_code":"JPY","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0954\/8451\/0494\/files\/IMG_9831.jpg?v=1791616792","url":"https:\/\/megurujapan.com\/de\/products\/bizen-ware-kensui-by-toho-kimura-japanese-tea-ceremony-bowl-matcha-slop-bowl-vintage-wabi-sabi-pottery-handcrafted-clay-art-japanese","provider":"meguru","version":"1.0","type":"link"}