Kato Toyohisa (加藤豊久), Japanese, b. 1962

A Nezumi-Shino Yunomi (鼠志野湯呑) 

Heisei Era (1989-2019) or Reiwa Era (2019-present)

About the work

This Nezumi-Shino yunomi by Kato Toyohisa presents the distinctive pale grey tonalities and soft, feldspathic surfaces characteristic of the style. The vessel displays a cylindrical form with subtly irregular walls, giving it a hand-shaped vitality. Across the surface, the iron underglaze patterning breaks through the milky Shino glaze, creating softly blurred lines and mottled textures. Areas of pinkish hi-iro blush enrich the palette, while the glaze’s natural pinholing and crawling impart further depth. The base reveals the warm clay body and a brushed signature. 

The piece is accompanied by its original signed wooden box, cloth and printed insert.

Dimensions

10.2cm(h) x 7.5cm(w)

Footnote

Kato Toyohisa (加藤豊久), who later adopted the name 土代久, is a distinguished ceramic artist celebrated for his innovative approach to Mino ware, especially Shino ceramics. He merges traditional techniques with a contemporary style, enhancing the classic aesthetic. Recognized early in his career, Kato received the Rising Star Award at the Asahi Ceramics Exhibition in 1983, along with accolades from the Tajimi City Art Exhibition and other major ceramic exhibitions.