Jar, incised lattice design

Collection NumberA001338
TitleJar, incised lattice design
DateMuromachi period, 15th century.
Artist, Kiln, Workshop信楽窯 Shigaraki ware
Name of prefectures & citiesShiga prefecture, Japan
Description of works【The Shigaraki Kilns, one of Japan’s six ancient kilns, have their roots in Tokoname】
In the 13th century CE, the pottery-making technique of the Tokoname Kilns in Aichi Prefecture reached Koka City in Shiga Prefecture, resulting in Shigaraki ware, such as this piece. Shigaraki is one of the rokkoyo (Japan’s six ancient kilns) which were founded in the Kamakura period and are still active today.
One enchanting feature of Shigaraki ware is expressive designs appearing on the surface that vary piece by piece. This jar, for example, has some parts in black, as if they were burnt, grains of feldspar emerging in white, and yellowish-green natural glaze occurring as a result of the ash inside the kiln accumulating on the jar, making it a showcase of different expressions. Its shoulder is embellished with a pattern typical of Shigaraki ware called higakimon (cypress fence pattern) composed of slanted lattices.

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