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

A Large Shino Ash-Covered Jar (志野灰被り壷)

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

About the work

A striking large Shino jar by Shotaro Hayashi, defined by its faceted, sculptural form and strong presence. The surface features a thick milky-white Shino glaze layered with natural ash effects, creating rich variations in tone and texture.

Fine crackle patterns spread across the surface, while iron and charcoal markings emerge through the glaze. Areas of exposed reddish clay along the edges provide contrast and emphasize the effects of high-temperature firing. The slightly irregular mouth enhances the organic character of the piece, with each side offering a distinct interplay of glaze and ash.

Accompanied by its original signed wooden box, cloth, and documentation.

Dimensions

27cm(h) x 24.5cm(w) x 22.5cm(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.