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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"Oil-Spot Tenmoku" Bowl by Shinichiro Baba, Founder of Shinemon Kiln ? A Rediscovered Legacy Work

This exceptional piece is a legacy work by the late Shinichiro Baba, the founding master of Shinemon Kiln?one of Arita’s most celebrated kilns. A rare creation long kept in storage, it now comes to light after many years, revealing the culmination of Baba’s mastery and artistic vision.

Shinemon Kiln is renowned for pioneering the art of *Yohen*?a glazing technique where unpredictable transformations occur within the kiln, resulting in unique, natural expressions of beauty. This particular bowl showcases the *"Yuteki Tenmoku"* (Oil-Spot Tenmoku) glaze, a highly prized effect formed during the firing of iron-rich glazes.

Across a deep, lustrous black surface, countless silvery crystalline spots shimmer like stars scattered across a night sky. The name *Yuteki*, meaning “oil spots,” refers to the spontaneous patterns resembling oil droplets on water?an exquisite interplay of chance and control. As light strikes the surface from different angles, the glaze reveals a dynamic spectrum of metallic luster and depth.

To further enhance its elegance, the rim is adorned with high-purity gold detailing, adding a refined brilliance to the quiet strength of the bowl’s form. It is a work of serene sophistication?one that invites quiet contemplation and appreciation with every glance and touch.

A final testament to the legacy of a master potter, this piece embodies the timeless beauty and philosophical depth that define the finest expressions of Arita ware.



[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."