Kiyoko Koyama (神山清子), Japanese, (1936-2023)

A Shigaraki Chawan (信楽釉茶碗)

Heisei Era (1989-2019)

About the work

A masterful Shigaraki tea bowl by Kiyoko Koyama, one of Japan’s foremost contemporary ceramic artists celebrated for her revival of traditional wood-fired kiln techniques. The bowl’s surface reveals a natural fusion of glowing red hi-iro tones and olive-gray natural ash glaze, achieved through the intense heat and unpredictable alchemy of wood firing.

The subtly distorted form, thickly potted foot, and tactile surface speak to Koyama’s sensitivity to the raw vitality of clay and fire, qualities deeply rooted in the Shigaraki tradition. This work exemplifies her pursuit of spiritual and material harmony through earth, flame, and time.

Accompanied by its original signed tomobako (wooden storage box).

Dimensions

7.6cm(h) x 13cm(w) x 12.3cm(d)

Footnote

Kiyoko Koyama (1936-2023) was born in Sasebo, Nagasaki, and later moved to Shigaraki after World War II. Initially working in ceramic decoration, she shifted to pottery at 30, pursuing the dream of recreating Shigaraki natural ash glazes using an anagama kiln. Over years of dedication and struggle, including building her own kiln, she perfected her craft, earning nationwide acclaim. Koyama held numerous solo exhibitions and became a celebrated figure in Japanese pottery.