Kitajima Shigemitsu Chawan

Chawan, stoneware 15 x 13.8 x 6.4 cm

This chawan was crafted by Kitajima Shigemitsu in Echizen. Kitajima founded Namiyose-gama in 1975 and dedicated decades to the traditional ceramics of his home region. His work draws on the long history of Echizen ware, one of Japan's six ancient ceramic centers.

The bowl has a deliberately simple, understated, slightly oval shape. The rim, which flares out slightly, and the robust, compact body give it a tranquil appearance. Its vibrant surface is particularly distinctive: earthy brown and gray tones are shot through with fine lighter areas and natural irregularities. The ash-fall glaze from the wood firing and the texture of the clay remain visible, giving the chawan its original, characteristic Echizen expression.

The interior reveals a warmer, reddish-brown hue, creating an appealing contrast with the rougher exterior. The understated design draws attention to the material, form, and firing, reflecting Kitajima's aim to create ceramics that are powerful yet warm.

The chawan comes in a wooden box (tomobako) signed by the artist.