Tomoo Hamada (濱田友緒), Japanese (b. 1967)

A Mashiko Kaki Glaze and Overglaze Enamel Bowl (柿釉赤絵鉢)

Heisei Era (1989-2019)

About the work

A Mashiko ware bowl by Tomoo Hamada, decorated in kaki-yū and aka-e. The rounded form is covered predominantly in a lustrous persimmon brown glaze, interrupted on the exterior by a reserved panel of lighter clay decorated with freely brushed motifs in green and iron red. The strong contrast between the deep brown ground and vivid enamel decoration gives the small vessel a particularly graphic character.

The interior is treated more quietly, allowing the simple form and warm glaze to take prominence. Characteristic of the Mashiko tradition, the bowl combines robust, functional construction with direct and expressive decoration. The irregularities of the glaze and hand painted design retain a strong sense of the maker's hand.

The original signed wooden tomobako is accompanied by a biographical leaflet for the artist.

Dimensions

6.2cm(h) x 11.8cm(w)

Footnote

Born in 1967, Tomoo Hamada is the grandson of Living National Treasure Shoji Hamada and the third-generation successor to the famous Hamada kiln in Mashiko. Carrying forward the Mingei spirit, he combines tradition with contemporary sensitivity. His works, often made using natural glazes and traditional techniques, are celebrated internationally. Tomoo continues to exhibit widely and contributes actively to preserving and revitalizing Mashiko’s pottery heritage.