SNOW & SUN

Looking a bit like soft, drifting snow over cracked ice, this simple Hagi chawan is by Yoshida Shuen. Over the years I have seen and handled quite a lot of his work, some showing the influence of his master Miwa Kyusetsu X, he must have been exceptionally prolific but this is the only chawan I ever held on to for any length of time. The form is simple, just generous enough and with the kodai, fits well in the hand and the landscape speaks to me of a time and a place conjured up in the imagination, where snow, sun and the warmth of the sun coming through the stormclouds paints a vivid picture. Clearly made for use, the details and visual presentation weren't rushed or ignored, probably all you can expect for a chawan though going that extra step is surely a welcome addition.