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

A Shino Square Vase (志野四方壺)

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

About the work

This Shino square vase by Hayashi Shotaro is a striking example of the sculptural strength and quiet warmth characteristic of Shino ware. The form is boldly constructed, rising in a compact, squared silhouette with gently rounded edges that soften its geometry. The mouth is slightly irregular and inset, creating a sense of depth and restraint that draws the eye inward.

The surface is richly coated in a thick, milky Shino glaze, pooling and crawling across the clay body to reveal warm iron tones beneath. Subtle blushes of fire color emerge through the glaze, while natural pinholing and texture testify to the high temperature firing process. These variations give the vessel a tactile, almost geological presence.

Both functional and contemplative, the vase is well suited as a flower container or as a standalone sculptural object. It is accompanied by its original wooden storage box, cloth, and descriptive leaflet, confirming authenticity and careful preservation.

Dimensions

23.5cm(h) x 21.8cm(w) x 22cm(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.