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

A Jukō Yōhen Sake Cup (珠光ぐい呑)

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

About the work

An expressive Jukō Yōhen Shino sake cup by Murata Jukō (Tetsuo), combining a compact, gently irregular form with softly mottled glaze and contrasting earthy tones. Jukō Yōhen (珠光窯変) refers to Murata’s distinctive glaze effects developed through firing, with “yōhen” describing changes in colour and texture produced within the kiln. Its pale pink and creamy white body is enlivened by olive-brown glaze flowing down from the darker rim.

The cup has broadly upright sides that open slightly towards an uneven mouth, with a shallow indentation giving the upper edge an individual character. A small circular foot supports the body, its exposed reddish-brown clay providing a warm contrast to the pale glaze above. Subtle changes in contour emphasise the handmade quality of the vessel.

Across the exterior, cloudy white passages mingle with soft pink and grey, creating a delicate background for the more pronounced glaze runs. Olive and ochre tones gather beneath the lip and descend in irregular trails, with one prominent run extending towards the foot. Small dark spots and variations in glaze thickness enrich the surface, while glossy areas catch the light.

The darker interior and rim frame the lighter exterior, giving the cup a balanced yet lively appearance. Its intimate scale invites close appreciation of the changing colours and textures. Accompanied by its original wooden box, wrapping cloth and artist leaflet.

Dimensions

5.7cm(h) x 7cm(w) x 6.8cm(d)

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.