Large Leaf-Shaped Bowl in Straw White Glaze

Crafted from red earthenware clay, this bowl offers a warm and rustic texture characteristic of pottery. Shaped like a broadleaf leaf and fired with a straw white glaze, formulated from the ash of burnt straw. This is a uniquely shaped bowl, molded into a rounded form with a single indentation, possessing a charming shape that resembles a flower petal or a heart. This piece was fired not in my usual small electric kiln, but in a kerosene kiln at a pottery studio I am currently working with. It was fired using a reduction firing method, which creates an oxygen-deficient environment in the kiln, resulting in a deep, nuanced character that cannot be achieved with an electric kiln. The glaze used is also an original glaze from the pottery studio, offering a unique color and texture. Its depth makes it perfect for holding dishes with sauces. Ideal for dishes like nikujaga (meat and potato stew), nimono (simmered dishes) with root vegetables, agedashi tofu, jibu-ni, potato salad, or dishes with ankake sauce. It also serves beautifully for desserts such as chilled shiratamazenzai (sweet bean soup with mochi balls), anmitsu, or warabi mochi. This bowl is a versatile piece for when you want to serve small portions. The creation process, from kneading the clay to shaping, bisque firing, glazing, and final firing, is 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, allowing you to enjoy the charm of handmade craftsmanship. 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 create various ceramic pieces in different colors and shapes, exploring the best combinations of glazes and clays. Each piece is unique, similar yet distinct, as I cannot replicate them exactly. I would be delighted if you could find a piece that you love. I hope you can enjoy the atmosphere woven by the clay and glaze as a part of your daily life. ----- *Size and Weight* Dimensions: Width 15.2cm, Depth 15.8cm, Base Diameter 5.1cm, Height 6cm Weight: 248g ----- *Important Notes for Purchase and Use* ・Due to the porous nature of pottery, it may absorb liquids, potentially leading to staining within crazing or moisture seeping through. For this reason, our shop applies a water-stopping treatment to all tableware using a food-safe sealant before shipping, so there is no need for initial seasoning (medome). This water-stopping process requires 2-3 days, which is why our shipping period is set at 5 days from order placement. 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 edited and shot to be as true to the actual product as possible. However, colors may appear differently depending on your monitor settings and lighting conditions. Please understand this in advance. ・As this item is also sold on other sites, 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 may accelerate its deterioration. We kindly ask that you refrain from using them as much as possible. ・Please refrain from using this item in an oven or over direct heat. ・After use, please wash thoroughly and ensure it is completely dry before storing it in your cupboard or elsewhere to prevent stains and mold.