This piece is a painted Karatsu tea bowl made by the potter Ishiguro Munemaro, who is known as the first Living National Treasure. He had a relationship with the 12th Living National Treasure Nakazato Tarouemon (Nakaza Kanamu), and it was fired in the Nakazato Tarouemon kiln during his stay in Karatsu for several months.

As a result, this tea bowl reflects the clay, glaze, and characteristics of the Tarouemon Kiln. Ishiguro personally turned the wheel and painted this piece, and you can sense the unique sense and beauty that is characteristic of Ishiguro Munemaro everywhere. The balance of the shape and the atmosphere of the painting give it a unique finish, and in some ways it feels as if this tea bowl was fired in Karatsu with a folk art mindset.

This tea bowl, which is a perfect fusion of the traditions of Karatsu ware and the artistry of Professor Ishiguro Munemaro, can be used at tea ceremonies and can also be enjoyed as a decorative item. Please take this piece in your hands and feel its beauty and history.

Diameter 13.7cm Height 8.7cm
Box: Shimizu Uichi Appraisal Box

Munemaro Ishiguro (1893-1968)

He was born as the eldest son of a doctor in Sakudo Village, Imizu County, Toyama Prefecture (now Imizu City).
In 1927, he moved to Kyoto and began making pottery there. He focused primarily on Tenmoku glaze, and his interests shifted from Raku ware, Akae, and Tetsue to various colored glazes. He never focused on technique, instead he followed his own talents and enjoyed free and unrestrained decoration.
In 1953, his Tenmoku glaze technique was designated as a national intangible cultural asset.
In 1955, he was recognized as a holder of the Important Intangible Cultural Property for his iron-glazed pottery technique.