Wakao Toshisada (若尾利貞), Japanese, b.1933

A Shino Guinomi (志野 ぐい呑) 

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

About the work

This guinomi by Wakao Toshisada is a refined example of Shino ware, featuring a compact, rounded form with a gently tapering base and slightly thickened rim. The milky-white feldspar glaze is softly textured, with natural pinholing and fine crackle that give the surface depth and quiet complexity.

Subtle reddish fire marks appear along the rim and body, emerging through the glaze and creating a warm contrast against the pale ground. The interior glaze pools slightly toward the center, enhancing its translucency, while the foot reveals expressive kiln effects with exposed clay and iron accents, emphasizing the piece’s rustic character.

The guinomi is accompanied by its original signed wooden storage box (tomobako) and cloth.

Dimensions

4.2cm(h) x 6.5cm(w)

Footnote

Wakao Toshisada (born 1933) is a leading ceramic artist from Tajimi, Gifu, a historic center of Mino ware. Largely self-taught, he began studying ceramics in 1949 and gained recognition through exhibitions in the 1960s. He became a full member of the Japan Kōgei Association in 1970 and received numerous awards, including the Mino New Artist Award and the Kato Kohei Prize. His works are held in major institutions such as the Victoria and Albert Museum and the National Museum of Modern Art, Tokyo. Designated an Intangible Cultural Property holder in both Tajimi and Gifu, he is celebrated for his expressive reinterpretation of Momoyama Shino.