Matcha Bowl - Kinkesshō Glaze
Matcha bowl in the Mino-yaki style, displaying a kinkesshō glaze, made by Yuhiko Kato (1920-1996).
The bowl is glazed in a reddish-brown colours with touches of green and subtle metallic specks.
- Top diameter: 12cm
- Height: 7.5cm
- Weight: 260g
- Packaging: Original wooden box, wrapped in a cotton fukusa (袱紗)
- Condition: Unused, retrieved from long-term storage
About Kinkesshō Glaze
Kinkesshō ("gold crystal") is a striking crystalline glaze that produces metallic, gold-like crystalline formations on the pottery surface. This effect is achieved through controlled cooling and the presence of metal oxides (often iron or manganese) that crystallize during firing. Kato Yuhiko was among the few Mino potters to master this difficult technique, which requires precise kiln conditions. To achieve the effect, the glaze is typically applied thickly, and the kiln is cooled in a way that allows crystals to form as the glaze solidifies. The result is a shimmering, almost jewel-like surface, sometimes resembling frost or gold speckles. While crystalline glazes have been used in China and the West, Kato’s work integrated them into traditional Mino forms, blending innovation with historical styles.
Profile of Yuhiko Kato (1920-1996)
Yuhiko Kato (1920–1996) was a Japanese potter and a key figure in the revival of kiseto (黄瀬戸) and shino (志野) glazes in modern Mino ware. He worked at the Izumi Kiln in Tajimi City, Gifu prefecture, and part of the historic Mino ware tradition—one of Japan’s most important ceramic centres.
Izumi Kiln (泉窯)
The Izumi Kiln is located in Tajimi, a city famous for its Mino ceramics, which include setoguro, shino, kiseto and oribe wares. The kiln has been influential in preserving and innovating traditional Mino techniques. Kato Yuhiko played a significant role in this lineage, particularly in experimenting with crystalline glazes like kinkesshō.