Yakushiji East Pagoda Tea Bowl – by Onishi Rakusai

This extraordinary chawan is crafted by Onishi Rakusai and incorporates sacred foundation soil from the Yakushiji East Pagoda, one of Nara’s most revered Buddhist landmarks. The pagoda, dating back to the 8th century, is a symbol of resilience and faith, and its earth is believed to carry deep spiritual significance.

The bowl itself is finished in a striking glaze where earthy browns merge with rich blues, evoking the meeting of earth and sky. Its robust form (⌀ 12.5 cm, height 8 cm) reflects the quiet strength of traditional Japanese tea ceramics while embodying a sense of historical continuity and reverence.

The chawan comes complete with its original signed tomobako (wooden storage box), underscoring its authenticity and value.