Murata Jukō (Tetsuo) (村田珠光(哲夫)), Japanese, b. 1922

A Jukō Yōhen Shino Yunomi (湯呑珠光)

Shōwa Era (1926–1989) or Heisei Era (1989–2019)

About the work

A compact Jukō Yōhen Shino tea cup (yunomi) made by Murata Jukō (Tetsuo), displaying a striking contrast between its soft grey lower body and richly coloured upper section. Broad passages of reddish-brown, dark brown and ochre glaze descend from the rim in rounded, flowing trails.

The cup has a gently tapering cylindrical form, with a slightly irregular mouth and a softly rounded lower edge. Its modest height gives it a grounded appearance, while subtle changes in the contour preserve the individual character of the handmade vessel.

The upper exterior is particularly expressive, with glossy reddish-brown glaze interrupted by almost black patches and golden olive tones. These colours flow down over a cooler grey ground, where small pinkish areas soften the transitions. Several glaze runs end in rounded droplets, providing distinct points of interest across the surface.

Small pinholes and changes in glaze thickness add texture to the quieter lower section. At the base, a band of exposed reddish clay frames the composition and contrasts with the glossy glaze above. The interplay of warm and cool colours gives this cup a distinctive identity within the group. Accompanied by its original wooden box.

Dimensions

7.7cm(h) x 7.1cm(w)

Weight: 197g

Footnote

Murata Jukō, also known as Murata Tetsuo (村田哲夫), was born in 1922. He trained under his father and received guidance from prominent ceramic artists including Katō Kōbei, Katō Tōkurō and Katō Hajime. His education also included visits to historic kiln sites throughout Japan, broadening his understanding of traditional pottery. He established the Shukō Tōsha pottery in Toyoyama, Aichi Prefecture, and devoted his practice to exploring kiln-induced effects in Shino glazes. His distinctive ceramics, sometimes described as Jukō-Shino, reflect a sustained interest in the colours, textures and surface variations achieved through firing. Alongside his studio work, he led the Shukō ceramics association and served as a judge for the Aichi Prefectural Cultural Exhibition.