Ahoj Petr,
That is an interesting question about western raku as a functional wares.
I am curious what makes you trouble with that. Post reduction (smoke), low fire, far from tradition? I am curious because I have/had some trouble too. For a long time I respected so called „raku” only for educational reasons or as you mentioned good technique for decoration items
http://www.coroflot.com/bero/raku. These chawans were an „accident” (I was preparing glaze for workshop and as a companion I took some chawans bisc) but I have fond a result unexpected pleasant. When I am drinking hot water from one of them I do not feel any bad or strange taste. Of course there is only clear glaze (frits + clay) and for post reduction I use newspapers instead of sawdust. Thanks a lot you share your doubts here. It was very inspiring for me and gave me a chance for explanation.
Thanks a lot for your words about my houhin set. It was inspirational too. What about an idea of exchange our works. I would like not only hold for a while your work but use it too:) I mean I will make a cup specially for you and vice-versa. Could be nice to make such exchange with other TA here but I am too shy to ask other artists.(prices are not comparable):-)
PM me if interested. Thanks.
saluto
andrzej
as usual sorry for my English it probably sounds rude
Might give them their maiden voyage with Gyokuro since they are a nice size for the precious dew. 
