Fukui Rakuin Aka-Raku Tea Bowl 'Kaki Koudai' - Persimmon Foot with Signed Box

A bold and commanding Red Raku tea bowl (aka-raku chawan) by Fukui Rakuin, featuring the distinctive 'Kaki Koudai' (persimmon foot) form. This matcha bowl showcases a rich, deep persimmon-red body with a dramatic dark gray-brown band at the rim, creating a striking visual contrast. A substantial piece for serious tea practitioners and collectors of Raku ware. Ships with tracking from Japan.

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[ PRODUCT DETAILS ]
• Artist: Fukui Rakuin (福井楽印)
• Origin: Kyoto, Japan
• Type: Tea Bowl (Chawan / 茶碗)
• Style: Aka-Raku (Red Raku) with Kaki Koudai (Persimmon Foot) / Traditional Japanese
• Dimensions: 12.0 cm diameter × 7.5 cm height (4.7" × 3.0") – Standard size for Usucha (thin tea)
• Materials: Raku clay, hand-applied red and dark glazes
• Packaging: Signed wooden box (tomobako) inscribed "柿高台 赤茶碗"
• Condition: Excellent condition. No cracks, chips, or repairs. Rich glaze surface intact.

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[ ABOUT THIS PIECE ]
This tea bowl commands attention with its bold cylindrical form and rich persimmon-red coloring. The 'Kaki Koudai' (柿高台) — literally 'persimmon foot' — refers to the distinctive foot ring shape reminiscent of the calyx of a Japanese persimmon fruit. This classical form has been prized in tea ceremony culture for centuries as a sign of refined craftsmanship.

The upper portion features a broad band of dark charcoal-gray glaze that contrasts dramatically with the warm red body below, creating a sense of visual weight and groundedness. The surface shows the characteristic texture of hand-molded Raku ware — each subtle variation a testament to the artisan's direct touch.

[ WHY CHOOSE THIS TEA BOWL? ]
Fukui Rakuin carries the "楽" (Raku) seal, indicating deep connection to the Raku ceramic tradition. The Kaki Koudai form is a connoisseur's detail — a feature that experienced tea practitioners will immediately recognize and appreciate. This bowl offers both visual impact and historical depth.

[ CULTURAL SIGNIFICANCE ]
The persimmon foot (kaki koudai) is one of the named foot-ring forms in Japanese ceramics, each carrying specific aesthetic associations. The persimmon shape — round and slightly splayed with a characteristic notch — evokes autumn abundance and the natural beauty celebrated in tea ceremony culture. In the world of chanoyu, the foot ring is considered one of the most important features of a tea bowl, and experienced practitioners will turn the bowl to examine it as part of the appreciation ritual.

[ PROVENANCE & AUTHENTICITY ]
Accompanied by the artist's signed wooden box (tomobako) with brush calligraphy reading "柿高台 赤茶碗" (Persimmon Foot Red Tea Bowl) and the artist's signature "楽印" (Rakuin). The tomobako serves as a certificate of authenticity.

[ SUGGESTED USES ]
• Formal and informal tea ceremony — the substantial form holds heat well for whisking matcha
• Centerpiece for a Japanese ceramic collection
• Perfect gift for tea lovers, collectors of Raku pottery, or Zen enthusiasts
• Distinctive anniversary or retirement gift with lasting cultural value

[ FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ]
Q: What does 'Kaki Koudai' mean?
A: Kaki Koudai (柿高台) means 'persimmon foot' — the foot ring is shaped like the calyx of a Japanese persimmon fruit. It's a classical form that indicates the potter's mastery of traditional techniques.

Q: Can I use this for drinking matcha?
A: Yes! This is a functional tea bowl designed for matcha preparation. The Raku clay retains warmth and the generous interior provides excellent space for whisking.

Q: How should I care for this bowl?
A: Rinse gently with warm water after use (no soap or dishwasher). Allow to dry completely before storing in its wooden box. Raku clay is porous, so avoid soaking for extended periods.

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• Dispatch: Within 1-6 business days
• Carrier: Japan Post EMS / UPS (with tracking)
• Packaging: Carefully wrapped with protective materials