Nestled within the artistic realm of meditative tea ceremonies, the Chawan by the Ardèche-based artist, Simon Manoha, emerges as an exquisite testament to the harmonious union of nature's bounty and human creativity.
Crafted with meticulous care and reverence, this Chawan is a masterpiece of both form and philosophy. Simon Manoha's connection to the land is evident in every facet of this vessel. He gathers clay and Ardèche glazes by hand, sourcing them directly from the forest and river, where nature's own fingerprints have shaped their unique character. These raw materials, nurtured by the Ardèche landscape, carry with them the whispers of ancient forests and the gentle caress of flowing waters.
But it is in the transformative fire of the anagama kiln, where the true alchemy occurs. For five days and five nights, at temperatures soaring above 1200 degrees, the Chawan is held within the belly of the kiln, a place where fire becomes ritual and the soul is captivated by its dance. The flames lick and caress, painting the vessel with the stories of their journey. The ash and embers leave their mark, creating textures and colors that are born from the very essence of the earth.
The firing process itself is a meditative act, an ancient rite of passage where clay becomes art and the Chawan finds its soul. The artist, in communion with the elements, guides the transformation, entranced by the mystical marriage of fire and earth. It's as if the Chawan itself becomes a participant in this sacred dance, absorbing the energy of the flames and the wisdom of the ages.
Each Chawan conceived by Simon Manoha is a testament to this profound connection to nature and the ardor of creation. It's a vessel not only for tea but for contemplation and mindfulness, inviting those who hold it to pause, breathe, and immerse themselves in the ritual of the present moment. This Chawan transcends functionality; it's an artistic embodiment of the Ardèche's soul, where earth, fire, and the human spirit converge to create an instrument of beauty, serenity, and transcendence.
Unique Piece
Nestled within the artistic realm of meditative tea ceremonies, the Chawan by the Ardèche-based artist, Simon Manoha, emerges as an exquisite testament to the harmonious union of nature's bounty and human creativity.
Crafted with meticulous care and reverence, this Chawan is a masterpiece of both form and philosophy. Simon Manoha's connection to the land is evident in every facet of this vessel. He gathers clay and Ardèche glazes by hand, sourcing them directly from the forest and river, where nature's own fingerprints have shaped their unique character. These raw materials, nurtured by the Ardèche landscape, carry with them the whispers of ancient forests and the gentle caress of flowing waters.
But it is in the transformative fire of the anagama kiln, where the true alchemy occurs. For five days and five nights, at temperatures soaring above 1200 degrees, the Chawan is held within the belly of the kiln, a place where fire becomes ritual and the soul is captivated by its dance. The flames lick and caress, painting the vessel with the stories of their journey. The ash and embers leave their mark, creating textures and colors that are born from the very essence of the earth.
The firing process itself is a meditative act, an ancient rite of passage where clay becomes art and the Chawan finds its soul. The artist, in communion with the elements, guides the transformation, entranced by the mystical marriage of fire and earth. It's as if the Chawan itself becomes a participant in this sacred dance, absorbing the energy of the flames and the wisdom of the ages.
Each Chawan conceived by Simon Manoha is a testament to this profound connection to nature and the ardor of creation. It's a vessel not only for tea but for contemplation and mindfulness, inviting those who hold it to pause, breathe, and immerse themselves in the ritual of the present moment. This Chawan transcends functionality; it's an artistic embodiment of the Ardèche's soul, where earth, fire, and the human spirit converge to create an instrument of beauty, serenity, and transcendence.
Unique Piece
