This expressive ceramic figure depicts 見ざる (Mizaru)—the “see no evil” monkey crafted by Kohama Kiln 古浜窯. One of the famous Three Wise Monkeys, Mizaru covers its eyes to symbolize the virtue of avoiding wrongdoing by not witnessing or dwelling on evil.
The monkey is rendered in a compact, seated form, its hands pressed gently over its eyes in a gesture that is both playful and contemplative. The surface is finished in a rich, earthy brown glaze with natural variations and flowing accents of pale ash tones, creating a textured, almost weathered appearance. These organic glaze effects highlight the contours of the figure—its rounded limbs, softly modeled face, and the subtle folds of its posture—giving the piece a sense of warmth and depth.
The aesthetic reflects the character of traditional Japanese kiln work, where spontaneity in glazing and firing produces unique, unrepeatable results. The slightly rustic finish enhances the folk-art charm of the piece, while the solid, grounded form conveys a quiet presence.
As part of the Three Wise Monkeys (見ざる・言わざる・聞かざる), Mizaru embodies a moral teaching rooted in both Buddhist and Confucian thought: to cultivate purity of mind by turning away from negativity. This figurine is not only a decorative object but also a symbolic reminder of mindfulness, restraint, and inner clarity, expressed through the tactile beauty of handcrafted ceramics.
