Kitajima Shigemitsu Chawan

Chawan, stoneware 14.5 x 5.5 cm

This Chawan by Kitajima Shigemitsu was fired in a traditional wood-fired noborigama (登り窯). Its wide-open form and surface completely marked by the fire are closely connected to the original aesthetics of Echizen-yaki.

The interior of the bowl is particularly expressive. Light beige, ochre, and gray tones flow seamlessly into darker brown areas. In the center, a dark, almost fan-shaped firing mark stands out, while stronger ash deposits and darker zones have formed at the rim. This gives the surface an almost landscape-like appearance, changing its character depending on the viewing angle.

The exterior also clearly documents the course of the wood firing. Reddish-brown clay meets dark, partially glossy areas as well as yellowish-olive ash deposits. Small mineral inclusions and the visible throwing marks emphasize the original character of the material.

The pronounced foot ring shows several light spots where the bowl rested during firing. Such marks are directly part of the firing process and make the position of the vessel in the kiln traceable.

No decorative glaze or painting is used. The actual design is created by the interplay of clay, flame, heat, and fly ash in the noborigama. As a result, this Chawan has a lively, non-reproducible surface and embodies Kitajima Shigemitsu's traditional approach to the ceramics of his home region of Echizen.