Chawan Kuroraku Hōju

This handmade matcha tea bowl from Shōraku Kiln, Kyoto, is steeped in symbolism from both Japanese and East Asian traditions. On the deep black surface of raku-fired clay, a white snake coils gracefully—depicted as a hōju (宝珠), the wish-fulfilling jewel in Buddhist iconography. This sacred orb symbolizes protection, spiritual blessings, and the granting of wishes.

The snake, one of the twelve animals of the Chinese zodiac, represents wisdom, transformation, and renewal. The year 2025, the Year of the Snake, is considered a time of personal growth and good fortune—making this bowl especially meaningful.

Each chawan is a unique piece, shaped by hand and fired in the traditional raku-yaki method, prized for its organic, unpredictable beauty and meditative presence.

The bowl comes in a paper gift box.

• Origin: Kyoto, Japan

• Material: Raku clay

• Dimensions: ø 11.4 cm, H: 7.3 cm