This raku fired ceramic “orb” makes me think of a brain! I think it may have been thrown as a single piece -- a closed form -- on a wheel and then trimmed in a wave like line to fit together. Inside, it was glazed from the bottom up with a deep red color with a spring green along the top edges. There seems to be a clear crackle on the top to create an ombre effect. Outside, there are deep lines in the neutral ceramic to create the sensation of movement (and to me, thinking!)

This would be so perfect for holding jewelry, coins or whatever special treasure you want to keep safe on your desk or vanity. Use it as a closed bowl or as two companion bowls side-by-side to put the red interior on display.

The piece is signed on the bottom. It may be P. Cihut or Cihyt. I was not able to locate this artist signature and may be interpreting the letters incorrectly.

It is in wonderful, vintage condition. No flaws noted.

I learned that Raku ware is meant strictly for decorative purposes. Due to the firing process, the clay is porous — meaning it will absorb, NOT hold, water — and fragile. It is not food safe and should not be used as “normal” daily ceramic ware is. It will safely hold valuable treasures though!

Dimensions:

Stacked - 3 3/4” tall by 4" diameter
Individual Bowls -1 1/4" to 2" tall (sides are unevenly cut)