Matcha Bowl - Kawamura Masuhiro
Large Shino matcha bowl in Seto-yaki style, made by Kawamura Masuhiro (1940–1998).
This Shino chawan is a prime example of the style: it has a thick, white, feldspathic glaze with a soft, milky appearance. The shape is slightly rough, with a rustic charm, which gives it a warm and earthy asymmetrical feel. Although Shino is often associated with Mino ware, they are also produced in the Seto region.
- Top diameter: 14cm
- Height: 8.5cm
- Weight: 725g
- Packaging: Original wooden box, wrapped in a cotton fukusa (袱紗)
- Condition: Unused, retrieved from long-term storage. The cloth and wooden box has age appropriate fading.
Seto-yaki and Shino features
Seto-yaki (瀬戸焼) is one of the Six Ancient Kilns of Japan and a major centre of ceramic production in Aichi Prefecture. It is especially known for its diversity of glazes and forms, owing to its long history and adaptability. While Seto ware includes everything from tea utensils to everyday dishes, its chawan (tea bowls) are particularly prized in tea ceremony contexts.
Seto-yaki is very diverse in the style of glazing, ranging from the white textures of Shino to the greens of Oribe, the jet black of Setoguro and the yellow of Ki-seto.
Shino ware emerged during the late 16th century and is notable for its thick, milky-white feldspar glaze, which often exhibits subtle pinkish or reddish hues due to iron content. This glaze can produce a soft, textured surface with occasional pinholes, known as "yuzuhada" or "citrus skin" texture.
Profile of Kawamura Masuhiro (1940-1998)
Kawamura Masuhiro (1940–1998) was a distinguished Japanese potter renowned for his contributions to Seto ware. He operated the Ryūgama kiln (龍窯) and was affiliated with several prestigious art organisations, including the Japan New Craftsmen Federation, the Japan Fine Arts Exhibition and the Seto Ceramic Art Association.
Kawamura's work is celebrated for its embodiment of traditional Japanese aesthetics and techniques. Notably, he produced Shino-style tea bowls, which are highly valued for their rustic charm and historical significance in Japanese tea culture . His pieces often feature subtle glazes and forms that reflect the wabi-sabi philosophy, emphasizing simplicity and imperfection.