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

A Jukō Yōhen Oni-Shino Jar (珠光窯変鬼志野壷)

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

About the work

A compact Jukō Yōhen Oni-Shino jar by Murata Jukō (Tetsuo), displaying a rounded body, pronounced shoulder and narrow neck that opens into a gently flaring mouth. Its substantial proportions and contrasting glaze passages give the vessel a strong presence despite its modest scale.

The body has a softly irregular outline, with broad curves descending to a defined circular foot. The neck is predominantly dark brown to almost black, creating a striking contrast with the thick, creamy glaze covering much of the lower body. Slight variations in the mouth and shoulder lend the piece an individual, handmade character.

Across the upper body, glossy brown and olive passages mingle with ochre and pale cream. Dark glaze runs descend from the shoulder, forming irregular streaks against the lighter surface. The lower section shows quieter white and faint pinkish tones, interrupted by small glaze variations and exposed areas near the foot.

The contrast between the dark neck and pale rounded body gives the jar a balanced yet dramatic appearance. Its bottle-like profile also makes it an appealing vessel for displaying a small arrangement of flowers or branches. Accompanied by its original wooden box.

Dimensions

13.5cm(h) x 10.5cm(w)

Weight: 451g

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.