This is a striking vintage Shino-yaki (志野焼) matcha bowl, a traditional form of Mino ware (美濃焼) originating from Gifu Prefecture. The bowl showcases the distinctive rustic aesthetics of Shino pottery, with a richly textured exterior in earthy brown and grey tones. Its speckled, almost volcanic surface bears natural pitting and unevenness from the firing process, creating a unique wabi-sabi character.
Inside, the glaze transitions to a deep, glossy brown, providing a beautiful contrast to the rough exterior. The slightly irregular cylindrical form and hand-built appearance emphasize the artisanal quality of this tea bowl, inviting both visual and tactile appreciation during the tea ceremony.
Shino-yaki, first developed in the late 16th century, is celebrated for its thick feldspathic glazes, subtle textures, and organic imperfections. Each piece is one-of-a-kind, embodying the Japanese ideal of finding beauty in simplicity and imperfection.
