Spouted Bowl (kataguchi)

This unusual vessel is known as a "one-spouted sake bowl." Deep and wide, it held ample servings of rice wine that funneled directly along the U-shaped groove of the pouring spout. The upper layer of vermilion lacquer has been worn down to reveal hints of an undercoat of black. This subtle decorative effect of red and black is one of the distinguishing qualities of the lacquer style produced by Negoro-ji, a Buddhist temple known for making utilitarian vessels for monastic and daily use.