Leaf-Shaped Bowl in Straw White Glaze

Crafted from red earthenware clay, this piece offers a warm and rustic feel characteristic of pottery. Shaped like a broadleaf plant's leaf and fired with a straw white glaze, formulated from the ash of burnt straw. This is a uniquely shaped bowl, formed round with a single indentation, giving it a charming appearance that resembles a flower petal or a heart. This piece was fired not in my usual small electric kiln, but in the oil kiln of a potter I am currently working with. It was fired using a reduction firing method, which creates an oxygen-deficient environment inside the kiln during firing. This process imparts a deep, flavorful character that cannot be achieved with an electric kiln. The glaze used is also an original glaze from the potter, offering a unique color and texture not found elsewhere. With its considerable depth, this bowl can securely hold dishes with sauces or broths. It's ideal for dishes like nikujaga (meat and potato stew), nimono (simmered root vegetables), agedashi tofu, jibu-ni (a Kyoto-style simmered dish), potato salad, or dishes with ankake (thickened sauce). It also serves beautifully for desserts such as chilled shiratamazenzai (sweet bean soup with mochi balls), anmitsu, or warabi mochi. This is a versatile bowl that proves useful when you want to serve small portions of various dishes. The creation process involves preparing the clay, shaping, bisque firing, glazing, and final firing, all done by hand using a small electric kiln and a potter's wheel at my home studio. The plump, rounded form, soft texture, and slight heft convey the authentic feel of pottery. While mass production is not possible, each piece has its own unique expression, and you can enjoy the subtle nuances that come from being handmade. The item you receive will be the same as pictured. The base of the bowl has been sanded to minimize scratching your table. I continue to explore various glazes and clays, seeking the best combinations, and create a diverse range of pottery in various colors and shapes. Each piece is unique, and while they may appear similar, no two are exactly alike. I would be delighted if you find a piece that you truly love. I hope you can enjoy the atmosphere woven by the clay and glaze as a touch of color in your daily life. ----- *Size and Weight* Dimensions: Width 14.7cm, Depth 15cm, Base Diameter 4.8cm, Height 5.2cm Weight: 252g ----- *Notes on Purchase and Use* - Due to the porous nature of pottery, it may absorb liquids, potentially leading to color stains in the crazing or moisture seeping through. For this reason, we apply a water-stopping agent to all our tableware before shipping, so there is no need for initial seasoning (medome). The water-stopping process requires 2-3 days, which is why we set the shipping period to 5 days from the order date. If you do not wish for the water-stopping treatment, please inform us at the time of purchase. - Cutlery shown in product images is not included. - Product images are taken and edited to be as true to the actual product as possible. However, please understand that colors may appear differently depending on your monitor settings and lighting conditions. - As this item is also sold on other platforms, in the rare event of overlapping purchases, priority will be given to the customer who completes the purchase process first. We appreciate your understanding. - While you can use this item in a microwave (for reheating) and a dishwasher, the vibrations from microwaves and the high-pressure spray of hot water can accelerate wear and tear. We kindly ask that you use them sparingly. - Please refrain from using this item in an oven or over direct heat. - After use, to prevent stains and mold, please wash thoroughly, dry completely, and then store in your cupboard or other storage.