Kumano Kuroemon (熊野九郎右ヱ門), Japanses, b. 1955

An Oni-Shino Guinomi (鬼志野 ぐい呑)

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

About the work

An outstanding guinomi (sake cup) by Kumano Kuroemon, one of Japan’s most distinctive studio potters and a celebrated master of Echizen ware. This piece exemplifies Kumano’s signature blend of tradition and innovation, combining the rugged strength of Echizen’s heritage with his own daring vision in glazes and firing.

The cup’s thick body is encrusted with a dramatic surface built from high-temperature wood firing in an anagama kiln. The deep textures and natural glaze flows create a sense of molten energy, while the color palette ranges from earthy ochres and iron-rich blacks to pale feldspar-white crawling.

Accompanied by its original tomobako (signed wooden box), protective cloth, and artist’s documentation, this guinomi functions as a ceremonial sake vessel and a sculptural statement piece.

Dimensions

6.5cm(h) x 8.2cm(w)

Footnote

Kumano Kuroemon was born in 1955 in Fukui Prefecture, the heart of historic Echizen ware. Originally trained in Japanese painting at Nagoya College of Art and Design, he transitioned to ceramics in the 1970s. After apprenticeships in Echizen and under master Toda Soshiro, he established the Tabi-makurawanryo Pottery Studio in 1987. Kumano has exhibited widely across Japan and abroad, including invitations to Sakhalin and Germany by cultural ministries. Known as the “Bear of Echizen,” both for his imposing presence and style, he remains an independent figure in Japanese contemporary ceramics.