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

A Nezumi Shino Tea Bowl (鼠志野茶碗)

Heisei Era (1989-2019)    

About the work

A boldly conceived Nezumi Shino chawan by Kato Toyohisa, whose work continues the celebrated Mino ceramic tradition while bringing a distinctly expressive approach to form and surface. The substantial bowl has a gently irregular profile and softly squared mouth, giving the vessel a strong yet natural presence in the hand.

The exterior is enveloped in a thick, milky Shino glaze, its pale grey surface punctuated by fine pinholes and subtle variations produced during firing. Broad areas of warm peach and reddish orange emerge through the glaze in sweeping abstract forms, contrasting beautifully with cooler grey passages. The interaction between glaze, exposed clay and firing creates a richly layered surface that changes considerably as the bowl is turned.

The interior is quieter and darker in tone, providing a striking contrast to the animated exterior. At the foot, areas of warm reddish clay remain exposed, revealing the vigorous trimming and tactile character of the underlying body. These deliberate irregularities, together with the softly distorted form, embody the spontaneous qualities highly prized in contemporary Mino tea ceramics.

The work is signed to the base and accompanied by its original signed wooden storage box (tomobako).

Dimensions

10cm(h) x 12.5cm(w) x 11.6cm(d)

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.