Shigaraki ware jar

Shigakari ware jar from the Taisho or Showa period, first half of the 20th century. H 24, D 14 cm. Signed on the bottom with an impressed seal and two, deep parallel lines which indicate the maker’s mark. Perfect condition. 

 

A large, heavy-thrown jar of Shigaraki ware in the characteristic raw-fired and brow mottled chamotte clay. It has been covered with splashes of running whitish glaze running dark-grey w. drops and encrusted cinders to finish it off. On one side the lip and shoulder have been compressed to leave a rustic and highly attractive impression for the viewer. 
 

Shigaraki was one of the ancient centres of pottery producing domestic wares, in the area which now forms Shiga Prefecture. Robust, thick-walled Shigaraki ware has been made since the waning years of the Kamakura period (1185-1333). It is made with a sandy clay containing felspar which is distinctly visible through the ash glaze.

    Like it's close cousin Bizen, Shigaraki wares were originally daily utensils with tsubo, kame (wide-mouthed jars) and suribachi (grinding bowls) the main staples. Not until the tea masters of the Muromachi (1336-1568) and Momoyama periods (1568-1603) favored these natural wares did they develop into one of Japan's most loved ceramic styles.