Nezumi-Shino-Yaki 鼠志野焼 - Signed - Chawan - Stoneware

Item Description
A distinguished Nezumi-Shino (Grey Shino) chawan (tea bowl) in the Mino ceramic tradition, presented in its original wooden tomobako (storage box). The piece is wheel-thrown with a robust, boldly formed body characteristic of the wabi aesthetic that defines Japanese tea ceremony culture.

The exterior is covered with a rich iron-slip (onita) underglaze, fired to the distinctive grey-mouse (nezumi) tones that give this rare style its name. Incised through the iron slip by a confident hand, a kikko (tortoiseshell hexagonal) pattern in sgraffito technique reveals the creamy white feldspar glaze beneath, creating a striking contrast of warm ivory outlines against the smoky charcoal ground. The two interlocking hexagonal forms — bold and slightly irregular — reflect the spontaneous, unaffected spirit of the Momoyama ceramic aesthetic. The undulating rim traces a natural mountain-path silhouette, and the interior reveals a beautifully textured glaze surface in deep charcoal and brownish tones. The unglazed foot ring exposes the warm sandy clay body and bears a stamped rectangular potter's seal. The piece comes in its original wooden tomobako, the lid inscribed in ink with "Nezumi-Shino Chawan, Kajitsu saku" (Nezumi-Shino Tea Bowl, made by Kajitsu), accompanied by a red seal.

This bowl embodies the bold, unpretentious spirit of Mino ware and represents a compelling acquisition for collectors of Japanese ceramics or tea ceremony enthusiasts.

Size
Height: 8 cm
Width: 12.5 cm (diameter)

Weight: 400 g

Condition
The bowl is in good overall condition with no chips, cracks, or repairs; age-appropriate patina and minor surface wear consistent with its vintage are present throughout.

Artist Profile
The tomobako bears the inscription "Nezumi-Shino Chawan, Kajitsu saku" (made by Kajitsu) with a red seal, and an impressed rectangular ceramic seal is stamped on the foot rim of the bowl. The artist's full identity could not be confirmed from available records; the work is attributed to a Japanese ceramist working in the Nezumi-Shino tradition, likely active in the 20th century. The name is tentatively read as Kajitsu (か実).

【Important Notice】
The item will be carefully packaged and shipped via Japan Post, DHL, or FedEx.
Estimated delivery time is about 1–3 weeks.
Import duties, taxes, and other charges are not included.
Combined shipping with other items is not available.
Thank you for your understanding.