TEA BOWL, Sue Ware, Kofun Period（250-581CE）

Sue ware refers to a type of hard, bluish-gray pottery that was introduced to Japan from the Korean Peninsula during the mid-Kofun Period (early 5th century).

In Japan, until the early Kofun Period, pottery such as Jomon, Yayoi, and Haji wares were produced using techniques akin to pit firing. While these methods allowed for relatively easy production, they also resulted in pottery that was prone to water absorption due to insufficient firing, leading to brittleness over time.

In contrast, Sue ware is characterized by its formation on a potter's wheel and high-temperature firing in a kiln, resulting in thinner, more refined shapes that are notably durable. However, due to its sensitivity to heat, Sue ware was primarily crafted for use as tableware and storage vessels.

This piece is a rare red-fired Sue bowl, showcasing the primitive forms and presence of Sue ware, evoking the elemental forces of fire, wind, and iron that contribute to the transformation of clay into vessel. Its aesthetic also harmonizes beautifully with wildflowers, perhaps for this very reason.