Continuing on from “The Appeal of Ceramics Starting with Karatsu Ware ②”
More types of Karatsu ware.

Kohiki Karatsu. The rustic white glaze and the texture of the clay are enthralling.
Though modest, there are many admirers of this ceramic ware. You never grow tired of it.
The photo shows a free cup. It is the best for drinking Makkoli. I purchased it from a shop right in front of the station on my first trip to Karatsu. I also bought a large Kohiki sake cup that is really great for drinking pure sake.

Mishima Karatsu  “Mishima” refers to ceramics that use an inlaying technique to produce a fine pattern.
It is humble, yet exquisite. Women like it
Karatsu ware has its roots in Korea. My fondness for it grew after seeing countless pieces of inlayed Mishima ware from the Yi Dynasty at the National Museum of Korea. Matcha is delicious in the antique tea bowl shown.

Madara Karatsu　A captivating piece using a straw ash glaze with a unique mottled pattern and elegant color tone.
It was created as small tea cup, but I often use it when I want to down some delicious sake.
The first tea bowl that I bought for my tea master mother was also a Madara Karatsu by this same artist.
At the time the pottery shop owner had said, “Young artists are quick to put a high price on any above-average tea bowl, but this master is so modest he prices his own very low.” His words left a deep impression on me. I’ve never met the artist, but he is one of my favorites.
Tea cup by Chiharu Kumamoto