Shigaraki-ware Guinomi by Saeki Kengo (with Original Box, Cloth, and Leaflet) - 日本茶碗 - 瓷

Please Note:
I usually ship within 24 hours after payment. However, payments made on Friday, Saturday, or Sunday will be shipped on Monday since the post office is closed on weekends. Tracking updates on Catawiki may take some time to appear. Shipping costs include insurance but not customs duties. Import taxes or customs fees may apply depending on your country, and I cannot influence or adjust them. If you disagree with the customs charges, please contact your local customs office directly. As this item ships from Japan, delivery may take longer than usual.

Description:
What is Shigaraki-ware?
Shigaraki-ware is one of Japan’s Six Ancient Kilns, known for its rustic textures, warm reddish clay, and natural ash glaze formed during wood firing.

Key characteristics include:
Unglazed natural surfaces enhanced by high-temperature firing

Mineral-rich clay with visible feldspar (ishihaze) that bursts into white crystals

A rugged, earthy aesthetic prized in tea culture for its organic beauty

This guinomi is a classic example—robust, rough, and filled with the raw charm that defines Shigaraki-ware.

Who is Saeki Kengo?
Saeki Kengo is a contemporary Shigaraki potter known for bold surface expression and strong firing effects. His works focus on:

Emphasizing the wild character of Shigaraki clay

Allowing natural kiln ash to create unpredictable patterns

Creating solid, masculine, and unrefined textures that appeal to collectors of wabi-sabi aesthetics

His pieces often show a powerful presence, where clay and fire speak for themselves.

What is a Guinomi?
A guinomi is a small sake cup used for enjoying premium sake. It is slightly larger than an ochoko and valued not only as a vessel but also as a collectible ceramic artwork.
Collectors appreciate guinomi for:

How they feel in the hand

Their intimate connection with the drinker

The unique expression produced by each clay body and firing

This piece embodies the joy of holding a one-of-a-kind vessel born directly from fire.

Design & Aesthetic Highlights
Powerful, rugged surface showing Shigaraki’s signature unrefined clay texture

Dynamic natural ash glaze creating white crystalline deposits across the surface

Warm reddish clay visible beneath the ash, enhancing depth and contrast

A distinctly masculine and earthy presence, giving it strong wabi-sabi appeal

Comes with original wooden box (tomobako), cloth (tomokire), and leaflet, ensuring authenticity

Antique/Vintage Notice:
This is a vintage item. Please note that it may show natural signs of age, such as minor wear, slight discoloration, or subtle imperfections. These characteristics are part of its history and enhance its authenticity.

Shipping & Handling:
We ship worldwide from Japan using insured and trackable services. All items are professionally packed to ensure safe delivery. Import duties or customs fees are the buyer’s responsibility. Delivery may take time depending on your location. Feel free to reach out with any questions.