A Shino Tea Bowl (maker and era unkown)

Artist:: —
Era:: Shōwa
Price:: $700
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Occasionally while browsing through the temple markets of Kyoto or perusing backstreets tea-ware shops, an attractive piece will catch my eye for no particular reason. When this happens, I typically buy it immediately without hesitation, trusting that I will be able to place it to a specific period or kiln given enough time and research. In some cases however, this proves to be a fruitless task and I am left only to appreciate the beauty and form of the object without having access to too many details regarding its origin—this is such a case.

Shino-ware dates to the Momoyama period when potters were attempting to recreate white porcelain-wares that were being imported from China at the time. Originally they were made in single-chamber anagama style kilns set into the hillsides. Later, with the advent of large-batch noborigama, shino production fell out of fashion and was replaced largely by Oribe (early Edo period). It was not until the early-20th century that famed potter Arakawa Toyozo brought Shino back from the brink with his research into Momoyama period kilns. For Arakawa and other potters to follow, Shino-ware held a special appeal as it was the only form of white pottery that could truly be said to have originated in Japan. They deeply admired the feldspar glazing, naturalistic form, excellent firing techniques, exceptional clay flavor, and brilliant fire colors that were so characteristic of the lost art of Shino-ware.

In excellent condition, this piece is 4.3 inches in diameter (11 cm) and stands 3.5 inches tall (9 cm). Likely crafted within the past 50-100 years, we have provided a new kiri wood box and protective cloth for this lovely Shino tea bowl. ** International shipping and insurance included in price.

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