Kitajima Shigemitsu Bowl

Plate, stoneware 15 x 6.8 cm

This bowl was made 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-yaki, one of Japan's six ancient ceramic centers.

The wide, slightly inward-curving body rests on a small foot and is accented at the rim by two opposing, knob-like handles.

The surface displays the natural color variations typical of wood firing. Dark brown and gray tones alternate with warmer reddish areas. Particularly around the rim, patches of ochre to olive-brown ash deposits can be seen. On one side, the coloring densifies into an almost black band, while the opposite side appears considerably lighter. These distinct differences document the bowl's position in the kiln and the effects of flames and fly ash during firing.

The exterior has a rough, granular texture, in which small mineral inclusions remain visible. In contrast, the horizontal throwing marks are clearly visible on the inside. A decorative glaze was omitted, allowing the clay and fire to create the actual design.

With its archaic form and irregular surface marked by wood firing, the bowl is closely connected to the traditional aesthetics of Echizen-yaki. The partially uncontrollable processes of firing make each vessel a unique piece.