A Taste of Tradition: Luna Matcha x Harahiko Kiln Matcha Bowls, Handcrafted with Heart
We at Luna Matcha are thrilled to announce a special collaboration bringing the timeless beauty of Koishiwara pottery from Japan to Los Angeles. In partnership with Harahiko Kiln (原彦窯元), a renowned Koishiwara pottery studio, we're proud to offer exquisitely handcrafted matcha bowls. Each one is a testament to centuries of Japanese artistry and resilience, showcasing the unique charm of Harahikokama pottery.
This collaboration began with a desire to support the artisans of Koishiwara, a region in Japan deeply affected by recent heavy rains. Their dedication to preserving their craft, even in the face of adversity, inspired us to share their unique cultural heritage with you.
The Art of Tobikanna: Unveiling Harahiko Kiln's Craftsmanship
Every Luna Matcha x Harahiko Kiln matcha bowl is a unique work of art, meticulously handmade by skilled artisans. A signature technique you'll discover on these bowls is "Tobikanna" (飛び鉋). This traditional method involves rhythmically shaving off slivers of clay with a specialized tool as the pottery spins, creating distinctive, mesmerizing patterns that dance across the surface of the Harahikokama pottery.
A Conversation with the Master: Harahiko Kiln Owner, Mr. Kajiwara
Recently, we had the honor of sitting down with Mr. Kajiwara, the passionate owner of Harahiko Kiln, to discuss the dedication and challenges behind each piece.
Mr. Kajiwara shared insights into the intricate process, highlighting why these Koishiwara ware bowls are so special:
- Limited Production: "Each piece is handmade, so mass production is not possible," he explained, emphasizing the unique nature of every Harahikokama pottery bowl you'll receive.
- The Unpredictability of Fire: Even with modern gas kilns, "about 10% of the pieces still crack during firing." This underscores the inherent difficulty and skill involved in pottery making.
- Sourcing the Earth's Treasure: Recent heavy rains washed away topsoil, making it challenging to find the high-quality clay essential for Koishiwara ware. "We now need to dig deeper to obtain good quality clay," he revealed, showcasing the extra effort required to source their raw materials for Harahikokama pottery.
- The Journey to America: "Shipping long distances to America often results in breakages." Despite this, Mr. Kajiwara stressed their unwavering commitment: "Still, we want to deliver products made with true heart, so we are meticulous in every step, from collecting the soil to manufacturing and shipping."
Experience the Spirit of Koishiwara with Luna Matcha
These matcha bowls are more than just vessels; they are a bridge to Japanese culture, embodying centuries of tradition, the resilience of a community, and the heartfelt dedication of master artisans. By acquiring one, you're not only bringing a piece of exquisite Koishiwara ware into your home but also directly supporting the continuation of this invaluable craft and the artisans at Harahiko Kiln.
Discover the authentic beauty of Koishiwara pottery and experience the warmth of a matcha bowl crafted with integrity and passion, brought to you through the Luna Matcha x Harahiko Kiln collaboration.