Tea Bowl Yuteki-Tenmoku | The first-generation head of the Shinemon Kiln [146177]

[size]
Width: 12.5cm / Height: 6.7cm
Width: 4.9in / Height: 2.6in

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Works by the late Shinichiro Baba, the first-generation Shinemon and predecessor of the Shinemon Kiln, a representative kiln of Arita ware.A masterpiece matcha bowl traditionally used in the Japanese tea ceremony.This is one of the final works left behind by the late ceramic artist. Long kept in storage, it has now, at last, come to light after many years. A culmination of the artist’s refined technique and unique aesthetic sensibility, this piece stands as a testament to the mastery he achieved in his lifetime.

The Shinemon Kiln is a leading authority in the Y?hen technique?a method that skillfully manipulates glazes. This piece was created by the kiln’s first-generation master, the late Shinichiro Baba himself.

Y?hen refers to the phenomenon in which the colors and patterns of glazes transform during firing, revealing a mysterious, natural beauty. This particular piece features the “Yuteki Tenmoku” glaze. Countless silver droplets shimmer against a deep black background, like stars twinkling in the night sky. The crystalline spots formed during the firing of the iron glaze create a metallic luster unique to this style.

As the name “Yuteki” (oil drop) suggests, the surface pattern resembles drops of oil spreading on water?an artistic expression shaped by both intention and serendipity. Depending on the angle and lighting, the piece reveals different expressions and subtle nuances.The rim is elegantly adorned with high-purity gold, adding a refined brilliance to its calm presence. This delicate detail enhances the overall form, offering a sense of graceful sophistication each time it is held.


[Potter Profile]
Shinichiro Baba (deceased)

The first-generation head of the Shinemon Kiln
Member of Nitten / Full Member of the Japan Contemporary Arts and Crafts Association / Member of the Saga Prefecture Ceramic Association / Member of the Arita Ceramic Association


[Shinichiro Baba's career is as follows ]
Born in 1924 in Arita, Saga Prefecture
1972: Founded the Shinemon Kiln in Arita.
1979: Selected for the Prefecture Exhibition with "Hexagonal Celadon Bowl."
1981: Selected for the Nitten exhibition with "Oil Spot Tenmoku Large Bowl," subsequently selected 21 times.
1989: Appointed as an art exhibition judge.
2000: Exhibited "Saiun-99" and "Sai-99" at the British Museum in London (Saga Prefecture Ceramic Exhibition).
2004: Exhibited "Saikei" and "Saimon" at the Arita Pottery Exhibition in Germany.

[Main Awards]
1983: Won the First Place Bijutsu Kyokai Prize at the Bijutsu Kyokai Exhibition for "Cinnabar Flower Vase."
1986: Received the Grand Prize and the Contemporary Craft President's Prize at the Contemporary Crafts Kyushu Exhibition.
1996: Awarded the Contemporary Craft Prize at the Contemporary Craft Exhibition for "Akebono no Nagisa."
2000: Received the Full Member Prize at the Contemporary Craft Exhibition for "Rensaku・Sai."