Japanese, Kyoto

The preparation and drinking of tea was an important practice for the warrior class. A pleasurable pursuit that invoked multiple senses, tea was an art form that nurtured the collection of a range of beautiful implements. Grouped here are a variety of ceramic vessels that were produced for the tea ceremony. Carefully hand-built into meaningful forms and embellished with carvings, slips, and glazes, each of these vessels functioned not only as a tea-making utensil but, more importantly, as an object to be appreciated and displayed.