This Shigaraki-yaki (信楽焼) chawan presents an unusual and captivating interpretation of one of Japan’s most ancient ceramic traditions, distinguished by its striking blue glaze—a departure from the typically earthy, fire-marked aesthetics of Shigaraki ware.
The bowl features a gently irregular, hand-formed silhouette with a softly undulating rim, embodying the natural, unrefined character associated with Shigaraki ceramics. Its body is composed of a coarse, stone-rich clay, visible through the subtly textured surface and small feldspar inclusions that create a quiet, organic sparkle beneath the glaze.
What makes this piece particularly distinctive is the layered blue glazing that wraps around the upper portion of the bowl. The glaze transitions from a deep cobalt tone along the rim into softer, misty blue hues as it flows downward, blending into the pale, natural clay body below. This gradient effect evokes imagery of sky meeting earth or water gently washing over stone—an expressive and painterly quality rarely seen in traditional Shigaraki work.
The interior is finished in a smooth, pale glaze, providing a calm and balanced surface that contrasts beautifully with the vivid green of matcha. The slightly uneven lip and tactile surface enhance the sensory experience of handling the bowl, aligning with the principles of wabi-sabi, where irregularity and natural variation are embraced.
Shigaraki ware, originating from Shiga Prefecture and counted among the Six Ancient Kilns of Japan, is celebrated for its rugged textures and interaction with fire. This blue-glazed example reflects a more contemporary exploration within that tradition, blending classical form with modern glazing techniques.
Size: 12 x 12 x 8.5cm
