Ryoji Hayashi (林亮次), Japanese, b.1940

A Nezumi Shino Tea Bowl (鼠志野茶碗)

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

About the work

A substantial Nezumi Shino tea bowl by Ryoji Hayashi, displaying the expressive glaze variation and tactile qualities associated with this celebrated Mino tradition. The gently irregular cylindrical form is shaped with a softly undulating rim and a robust foot, giving the bowl a pleasing sense of weight and informality.

The exterior is enveloped in a richly varied glaze transitioning from smoky grey and bluish grey to warm reddish brown around the rim and lower body. Areas of darker iron colour emerge through the glaze, creating an atmospheric, almost landscape like surface. The interior is considerably darker, with deep charcoal and blue grey tones gathering beneath the warm brown rim. These variations give the bowl considerable depth and change subtly according to the light.

The irregular profile, visible throwing marks and unpredictable glaze effects reflect the Japanese appreciation of natural variation within tea ceramics. Intended for use in chanoyu, the bowl combines a comfortable, grounded form with the expressive qualities of Nezumi Shino.

Accompanied by its original signed wooden storage box (tomobako), signed cloth (tomonuno) and documentation.

Dimensions

9.3cm(h) x 12.8cm(w) x 12.7cm(d)

Footnote

Ryoji Hayashi (b. 1940, Toki City, Gifu Prefecture) is a third-generation potter of the Shozan kiln, specializing in Shino ware tea ceramics. Since 1961, he has exhibited in the Asahi Ceramic Exhibition, the Japan Traditional Art Crafts Exhibition, and the Tokai Traditional Art Crafts Exhibition. He has held numerous solo exhibitions in Tokyo, Osaka, and Hiroshima, and is recognized for his refined interpretations of Shino tradition.