Japanese Handmade “Mike” Rice Bowl – Layered Ash Glazes, Calico-Inspired Design - Seto Ware, Tsubaki Kiln

This handcrafted rice bowl is designed for everyday dining, ideal for serving steamed rice, small side dishes, or simple seasonal meals. Its calm presence and natural tones make it easy to incorporate into both casual table settings and more refined occasions.

Crafted at Tsubaki Kiln, located in Jokoji, Seto City—one of Japan’s most historic pottery regions—this piece reflects the long tradition of Seto ware, which has been produced continuously for over 1,000 years. Founded in 1979 by master potter Haruji Hayashi, Tsubaki Kiln is widely known for its refined Seto sometsuke (blue-and-white porcelain). In 2012, the kiln was passed on to second-generation potter Eiji Hayashi, who brings a contemporary sensibility shaped by his background in sculpture and formal training in Kyoto. While honoring traditional techniques, he continues to explore new expressions of Seto ceramics.

The bowl is named “Mike,” inspired by the Japanese term for a calico cat, known for its distinctive tri-color coat. This concept is expressed through the luxurious layering of three natural ash glazes:

• Wood ash producing warm brown tones

• Pine ash yielding soft green hues

• Rice straw ash creating gentle white accents

Rather than a painted motif, the calico reference emerges organically through the interaction of these glazes, resulting in subtle depth, natural variation, and a one-of-a-kind surface on each piece.

The form is gently rounded with a well-balanced profile that fits comfortably in the hands. Its smooth rim, stable foot, and understated silhouette highlight the natural texture and warmth of the ash glazes, offering both visual harmony and practical usability.

Combining traditional materials with a modern, restrained aesthetic, this rice bowl embodies the quiet elegance of contemporary Seto ware. It is a versatile piece that brings a sense of warmth, balance, and craftsmanship to everyday meals—an object meant to be used, appreciated, and enjoyed over time.