Aogaratsu Mentori Tea Bowl

• Dimension: 11.4 D x 8.1 cm H
• Region: Saga
• Artist: Koji Inoue
• Technique: Aogaratsu green glaze
• Care: As each item is handmade and fragile, we encourage you to hand wash only as it is not suitable for dishwasher or microwave. Please avoid placing the items in direct sunlight.
• This item comes with its own wooden box and tied in a traditional Japanese ribbon.

The aogaratsu mentori tea bowl by Koji Inoue is a refined piece of Karatsu ware that showcases the artist’s masterful blending of traditional techniques with a contemporary sensibility.

The Mentori tea bowl is a type of Japanese tea bowl traditionally used in the Japanese tea ceremony. The term "mentori" refers to a specific shape or style of the bowl, characterised by a sharp and flat design, which gives the bowl a unique, graceful form.

The term "Aogaratsu" specifically denotes a green-glazed variation of Karatsu ware, where the glaze often features shades of green, sometimes with subtle variations that result in earthy tones like brown or yellow. The "Ao" in Aogaratsu means "green" in Japanese, which highlights the distinctive hue of the glaze used in this style. The aokaratsu small cup embodies a sense of quiet sophistication, making it a versatile addition to any collection, appreciated for its craftsmanship, practicality, and timeless aesthetic.

Koji Inoue
Potter and Artist
Born in Karatsu in 1974, Koji Inoue has dedicated his life to mastering traditional Japanese ceramics.

He graduated in 1999 from Tama Art University, specialising in Craft Design (Metal Course), and continued as a research student in the same field. In 2002, he completed his studies at Arita Ceramics College and apprenticed under Jun Isezaki, a renowned Bizen potter, from 2002 to 2005.

In 2006, Koji began working at the Kyozangama Kiln, established by his father, Touya Inoue, who had been a potter and artist with a deep connection to Karatsu ware. Under his father's guidance, Koji transitioned from his previous experiences to fully immerse himself in the legacy of traditional Karatsu pottery. After his father's passing in 2013, Koji continued the family tradition and worked diligently to refine his own distinctive style, focusing on the deep aesthetics and techniques his father had fostered.

Koji's ceramics, characterised by their clean forms and rich glazes, reflect his deep appreciation for traditional aesthetics. His work has been recognised at prestigious events, including the "Tea Ceremony Art Exhibition" at the Tanabe Museum of Art. His personal interest in the tea ceremony further enriches his creations, blending functionality with artistic expression.