This exhibition commemorates the succession of the Choraku name by the fourth-generation rakuyaki ceramic maker Ogawa Choraku. It is Choraku IV’s first full-scale solo exhibition in Tokyo since he assumed the name in 2024, taking over a family business that has been operating in Kyoto since 1906. The Choraku kiln upholds the storied traditions of the Raku school of pottery, believed to have been established in the latter half of the 1500s on the request of tea master Sen no Rikyu.
The exhibition features a total of 60 works, including tea bowls, jars and flower vases. In addition to the traditional red and black styles of the Raku school, Choraku also experiments with his own firing techniques. A particular highlight is the ‘Aigusuri glaze’ black raku tea bowl, which features an indigo glaze inspired by the traditional vermilion glaze of the Raku tradition. You can buy your favourite works at the exhibition on the spot.
For more information, check the event’s official website (in Japanese only). The event takes place at the art gallery on the sixth floor of Nihombashi Mitsukoshi Main Store from 10am to 7pm each day (until 5pm on the last day).