– Shino-glazed fresh water container (mizusashi) for tea ceremony by Sasaki Tadashi – Classic Mino pottery with warm shino glaze showing characteristic orange and white tones – Functional tea ceremony vessel, approximately 18.2 cm height Summary: This mizusashi (fresh water container) represents the Shino glazing tradition of Mino province, created by ceramist Sasaki Tadashi. Shino ware, one of Japan's most celebrated ceramic styles, originated during the Momoyama period (1573–1603) and remains central to tea ceremony practice. The piece features the thick, creamy Shino glaze with warm orange-toned "fire colour" (hi-iro) where the glaze breaks thin over clay contours. Measuring approximately 18.2 cm high by 16 cm wide, this water container serves both ceremonial function and sculptural presence. Light surface marks consistent with handling; overall excellent condition. In tea ceremony's carefully choreographed movements, the mizusashi occupies essential territory. This fresh water container—neither boiling kettle nor waste water receptacle—holds clean water for adjusting tea temperature and rinsing utensils. Sasaki Tadashi's Shino version brings five centuries of ceramic tradition into that intimate ritual space. Shino ware emerged during Japan's Momoyama period, when tea ceremony evolved from courtly refinement into more rustic, spiritually-inflected practice. The tea master Sen no Rikyū championed humble Korean-influenced ceramics and Japanese imitations thereof, valuing natural imperfection over Chinese precision. Shino became the first white-glazed ware produced entirely in Japan, primarily around Mino (present-day Gifu Prefecture), where iron-bearing clays and specific feldspar compositions enabled the distinctive thick, milky glaze. What makes Shino immediately recognisable is the "fire colour" (hi-iro)—those warm orange-to-peachy tones appearing where glaze pools thin over ridges or drains away from vertical surfaces. This occurs through iron in the clay body oxidizing during firing, creating colour variation unachievable through glaze chemistry alone. The effect transforms each piece into unrepeatable combination of maker's intent and kiln's chance contribution. Sasaki Tadashi works within this tradition whilst bringing contemporary sensibilities to form and surface. The mizusashi's proportions follow classic tea ceremony requirements: stable base, vertical walls that retain heat whilst permitting easy water access, and a fitted lid (not visible in available images but standard for mizusashi format). The Shino glaze here shows characteristic thick application with subtle orange blushing—suggesting proper reduction firing in gas or wood-fueled kiln rather than electric oxidation atmosphere. For tea practitioners, a well-made mizusashi represents essential equipment, used in every ceremony to replenish the iron kettle or adjust water temperature. For collectors, Shino mizusashi exemplify functional beauty—objects shaped entirely by use requirements yet achieving aesthetic presence through material honesty. The thick glaze invites touch, the form satisfies visually from multiple angles, and the piece carries cultural weight without pomposity. Dimensionally, at approximately 18.2 cm high and 16 cm wide with a 10 cm opening, this falls within standard mizusashi proportions—large enough to hold sufficient water for a complete tea ceremony, compact enough not to dominate the tearoom's carefully balanced spatial composition. The relatively wide opening facilitates the bamboo ladle (hishaku) movements required during ceremony. Shino's aesthetic appeal extends far beyond tea ceremony contexts. Contemporary interiors increasingly appreciate the glaze's soft, warm presence—neither stark white nor aggressively colourful, but occupying a comfortable middle ground. The orange fire colour adds organic warmth that coordinates beautifully with natural woods, linen textiles, and the neutral palettes dominating current design trends. A Shino mizusashi displayed on open shelving or in a glass-fronted cabinet becomes sculptural accent, its rounded form and textured surface providing visual interest without overwhelming. The piece shows light surface marks and possible minor discolouration noted in the description—entirely normal for Shino ware, which develops character through use and handling. Unlike pristine porcelain where every mark suggests damage, Shino invites gentle patina as evidence of the object's journey. The glaze remains intact, the form sound, and the overall impression suggests careful stewardship. Mino remains Japan's ceramic heartland, with contemporary potters maintaining techniques refined over centuries whilst exploring personal interpretations. Sasaki's work fits this continuum—respecting traditional forms and glaze applications whilst imbuing each piece with individual character. For collectors seeking authentic Japanese tea ceremony ceramics without requiring museum-level provenance, well-executed contemporary Mino ware offers considerable value and genuine cultural connection. Shipping & Handling We ship worldwide via DHL or EMS with full insurance and tracking. Professional packing ensures safe arrival; combined shipping available for multiple wins. Local customs duties are the buyer's responsibility. Seller Guarantee We specialise in authentic Japanese ceramics and guarantee this piece's authenticity. Questions welcome—we reply within 24 hours. 1226