Kimura Ichiro (木村一郎), Japanese (1915–1978)

A Persimmon-Glazed Tea Bowl with Cinnabar Design (柿釉辰砂絵茶碗)

Showa Era (1926-1989)

About the work

A bold and expressive tea bowl by Kimura Ichiro, a seminal figure in 20th-century Mashiko ceramics. This chawan features a rich persimmon glaze (kaki-yū) accented with dynamic cinnabar (shinsya) brushwork over a white slip, forming abstract leaf motifs that echo both nature and artistic freedom. The hand-formed, faceted body enhances its rustic elegance and individuality.

The base is unglazed, exposing the coarse Mashiko clay, with the artist’s mark impressed into the foot. Accompanied by the original tomobako (signed wooden box) and leaflet.

Dimensions

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

Footnote

Born in 1915 in Mashiko, Kimura Ichiro was inspired by the Mingei movement and trained under both Shoji Hamada and Kawai Kanjiro. He later studied at the Kyoto Ceramic Research Institute, where he deepened his knowledge of traditional and modern techniques. Known for his robust, spontaneous forms and experimental use of glazes, Kimura mastered a wide array of styles including kaki-yū, shinsya, white porcelain, and inlay. After WWII, he devoted himself fully to pottery, becoming one of Mashiko’s most independent and innovative postwar artists. His work embodies a rare blend of folk tradition and individual genius.