Hagi Ware | Japanese Pottery | Katakuchi | Spouted Bowl | Sake Pitcher | Matcha Tea Bowl | Beige Glaze | Handmade Ceramic | Wabi Sabi Art

The Story Behind This Piece:

In the mountainous region of northern Hiroshima Prefecture, where deep snow blankets the ancient villages in winter, this Hagi ware Katakuchi (spouted bowl) was discovered in the depths of a heavy-walled storehouse belonging to a wealthy traditional farmhouse. For decades, it had remained hidden in the shadows, untouched and unseen. When it was finally brought back into the light, its soft loquat-colored glaze shimmered with a gentle radiance, as if awakening from a long, profound slumber.

Judging by its form and glaze, this bowl is estimated to have been crafted during the early Showa period, specifically between the 1950s and 1960s. At that time, the "Mingei" (Folk Crafts) movement, championed by Soetsu Yanagi, had reached the cultural circles of Hiroshima. This piece was born from that very spirit—the pursuit of "Yo-no-Bi" (the Beauty of Utility), created by the hands of an anonymous but highly skilled craftsman for use in daily life. The square potter's mark impressed near the foot is a testament to its origin, reflecting the confident, decisive tool work of a master potter who knew his clay intimately.

The original owner of this bowl is said to have been a man of refined taste who supported the local culture of the region. In the northern parts of Hiroshima, such spouted bowls were indispensable for social gatherings around the "Irori" (sunken hearth). It was used to pour local sake during long winter nights or to serve fresh mountain vegetables gathered in the spring. The delicate network of "Kannyu" (crackling) visible on the surface has deepened over time, absorbing the essence of the liquids it once held. This process, known in Japan as the "Seven Transformations of Hagi" (Hagi-no-Nanabake), represents the unique cultural idea that the user "grows" the vessel. The bowl is not just an object; it is a record of human life and interaction.

As Japan entered the era of rapid economic growth and lifestyles modernized, these heavy, traditional ceramics were gradually replaced and eventually tucked away in the storehouse, preserved along with the memories of the family. It began a long period of rest intended for future generations. Now, decades later, following the decision to dismantle the old folk house and organize its heritage, this Katakuchi has miraculously re-emerged in pristine condition, ready to tell its story once more.

Looking at this vessel from a modern perspective, one cannot help but feel the overwhelming presence of "wabi-sabi." The asymmetrical form, the bold curve of the spout, and the harmony born from the imperfection of earth and fire—these elements embody an authenticity that mass-produced items can never replicate. From the standpoint of Mingei value, this bowl elegantly bridges the gap between functional craft and fine art. It possesses a quiet dignity that commands respect without being ostentatious.

To hold this Katakuchi in your hands is to connect with the warmth of the people who lived in the harsh yet beautiful nature of northern Hiroshima and to breathe the air of the Showa era. Whether used as a sake server, adding historical depth to every drop, or as a vase for wildflowers, it breathes timeless life into its surroundings. This is more than just an antique; it is a living cultural heritage designed to bring "stillness" and "richness" to a modern lifestyle. It invites you to become the next guardian of its story, continuing the tradition of nurturing this vessel for the decades to come.

Condition & Notes:
Please note before purchasing.
This is a vintage or antique item sold as-is.
Due to age and long-term storage, natural signs of wear and aging may be present, including:
* small scratches or scuffs
* fading or discoloration
* glaze irregularities or imperfections
* crackling (crazing), kiln marks, or gold wear
* slight warping or age-related changes in wooden parts
Vintage and antique items may also carry natural storage-related scents from wood, paper, lacquer, smoke, or long-term preservation environments.
These characteristics are part of the individuality, historical character, and quiet beauty that vintage Japanese items carry.
They are not flaws, but the gentle traces of time.
We kindly ask for your understanding that vintage and antique items differ from newly manufactured products.
We do our best to show all notable details in the photos, but some small imperfections may not be fully visible.
Please review the dimensions carefully before purchasing, as photos may make items appear larger or smaller depending on display settings and shooting conditions.
Please note that colors may appear slightly different depending on lighting conditions and screen settings.
Only the items shown in the photos are included unless otherwise stated.
Display stands, decorative props, or accessories used for photography are not included unless explicitly stated.
Thank you for appreciating the character and spirit of these timeworn pieces.

Dimensions:

Height: 5.0 cm (1.97 in)
Base Diameter: 7.2 cm (2.83 in)
Rim Diameter: 14.4 × 13.1 cm (5.67 × 5.16 in)
Maximum Circumference: 41.5 cm (16.34 in)
Weight: 280 g (9.88 oz)

Shipping Information:
All items are shipped from Hiroshima, Japan.
Orders are usually dispatched within 3–5 business days after payment is confirmed.
For shipments to the United States, we use DHL Express or UPS with full tracking and insurance.
For all other destinations, orders are shipped via DHL Express, UPS, or Japan Post EMS depending on the destination and shipping conditions.
Each item is carefully packed with protective materials to ensure safe delivery.
Estimated delivery time is approximately 7–14 business days depending on customs procedures, local delivery conditions, weather disruptions, and customs inspections.
International Buyers – Duties, VAT & Taxes:
Import duties / customs duties are covered by us for all available shipping destinations.
However, VAT, GST, consumption taxes, customs processing fees, carrier handling fees, and other local import-related charges are not included in the item price unless otherwise stated.
These charges are the responsibility of the buyer.
Depending on your country’s regulations, these charges may be collected either by local customs authorities or by the shipping carrier upon delivery.
For many higher-value international orders, VAT/GST and import-related processing charges are commonly collected at the time of delivery.
Please note that free shipping or customs duty coverage does not mean that VAT/GST or local import-related charges are included.
Even when customs duties are covered by us, VAT/GST and local import-related charges may still be payable separately by the buyer upon delivery.
We do not mark items as gifts or under-declare their value for customs purposes.
Please ensure that your shipping address and contact information are accurate and complete.
If a package is returned due to an incorrect address, unpaid VAT/GST or import-related charges, refusal, or failed delivery, all return and reshipping costs are the buyer’s responsibility.
International deliveries may occasionally experience delays due to customs procedures or local postal conditions.

Damage During Shipping:
In the unlikely event that your item arrives damaged, please contact us within 10 days of delivery and provide clear photos of:
* the damaged item
* the outer shipping box
* the inside packaging condition
* the shipping label
Please keep all packaging materials and damaged items until the shipping carrier completes the investigation.
Minor imperfections consistent with the nature of vintage or antique items are not considered shipping damage.

Returns & Refunds:
All items are vintage or antique and sold as-is.
Due to the nature of vintage and antique items, we generally do not accept returns, cancellations, or refunds except where required by law or covered by shipping insurance.
Returns or refunds are not accepted for reasons such as:
* change of mind
* customs delays
* minor differences in condition
* color differences
* texture variations
* size impression differences
* natural signs of age and wear
However, if severe loss or damage during shipping is officially confirmed by the carrier’s insurance, we will respond within the scope of the insurance coverage.
For customers in the UK and EU, applicable consumer protection laws and cooling-off rights will take precedence where required by law.

Safety & Usage:
These items are decorative vintage or antique pieces intended for adult collectors.
They are not toys and are not suitable for direct food use.
Vintage ceramics may contain historical materials or glazes that do not meet modern food safety standards.
We cannot guarantee suitability for modern food, beverage, dishwasher, microwave, oven, or direct cooking use.
Please enjoy them as decorative objects that bring quiet beauty and history into your space.
Handle with care and avoid prolonged exposure to moisture, direct sunlight, or heat.

Liability Disclaimer:
We cannot be held responsible for any accidents, damage, allergic reactions, injury, loss, or issues resulting from the use, handling, aging, restoration, transportation, or storage of vintage or antique items.
All products are sold as decorative vintage collectibles, and customers are responsible for proper handling, display, usage, and storage.
By completing your purchase, you acknowledge and agree to these terms.

Additional Notes by Region:
■ United States
State taxes, such as Sales Tax, may be collected according to local regulations.
California Proposition 65:
Some vintage items may contain historical materials such as natural lacquer, pigments, metals, or antique finishes. This notice is provided for informational purposes only.
■ European Union (EU)
Our shop is not registered for IOSS or EU VAT collection.
Import VAT, customs processing fees, handling charges, or other import-related charges may be collected upon delivery according to local regulations.
These charges are the responsibility of the buyer.
■ United Kingdom
Our shop is not registered for UK VAT collection.
Import VAT and related charges may be collected upon delivery.
The buyer will be considered the importer of record for customs purposes.
■ Switzerland, Singapore, Taiwan, Thailand
Import VAT/GST, customs processing fees, handling fees, carrier fees, or other import-related charges may apply according to local regulations.
For Taiwan:
Registration with the EZ WAY app may be required for customs clearance.
■ Hong Kong
Hong Kong currently does not generally impose VAT/GST on imported goods.

Contact Us:
If you have any questions regarding our items, shipping, usage, dimensions, or condition, please feel free to contact us before purchasing.
We’re happy to assist you and will do our best to respond as promptly as possible.
Thank you for considering a piece from our kura — each item carries a quiet story shaped by time in Japan.
This piece is part of our curated collection discovered in rural Japan.
On our official website, we share:
– the story of the kura (traditional Japanese storehouse) where this item was discovered
– background on how similar objects were once used in everyday life
– exclusive collections and pieces not listed elsewhere
We hope these objects will continue their quiet journey with you.