Hayashi Shotaro (林正太郎), Japanese (b. 1947)

A Shino Yunomi 

Showa Era (1926-1989), Heisei Era (1989-2019) or Reiwa Era (2019-present)

About the work

Shino ware, with its rich textures and striking interplay of iron-rich clay and feldspathic glaze, is celebrated as one of Japan’s most iconic ceramic traditions. This yunomi (tea cup) by Hayashi Shotaro exemplifies the bold aesthetics and tactile beauty for which Shino ware is admired. The piece displays a vivid contrast between its warm red clay body and the milky white glaze, which pools and crackles to reveal underlying tones of orange and scarlet. The surface carries a natural, almost organic quality, enhancing its presence in hand and on display.

The yunomi comes complete with its original tomobako (signed wooden box) and protective cloth, underscoring its authenticity and the esteem accorded to the work.

Dimensions

8.5cm(h) x 8.9cm(w) x 8.8cm(d)

Footnote

Hayashi Shotaro, born in 1947 in Toki City—a region renowned for its Mino ceramics—initially pursued a career as a salaryman in Nagoya before returning to his roots to study pottery under his brother. His innate talent soon flourished, earning him accolades such as the highest award at the Gifu Prefectural Art Exhibition in 1968 and the Governor’s Award at the Asahi Ceramic Exhibition in 1971.

An official Beholder of Intangible Cultural Property of the Mino Prefecture, Hayashi has had his works included in numerous museum collections both in Japan and internationally. His robust forms and masterful use of traditional Shino techniques have cemented his status as one of the foremost figures in modern Japanese ceramics, while his contemporary innovations, such as the Manyosai glaze, continue to inspire new generations of ceramic artists.