Horai Tea Bowl by Shimizu Uichi, Living National Treasure, Kyoto Ceramist

A Horai (Horai-gama) tea bowl by Shimizu Uichi, a designated Living National Treasure. It has a refined form and a dignified presence.

Shimizu Uichi (1926–2004) was a Japanese ceramicist born in the Gojozaka district of Kyoto's Higashiyama ward. He studied under the potter Ishiguro Munemaro, whose approach to craftsmanship deeply influenced his career, and researched Chinese iron-glaze (tessatsu) and persimmon-glaze techniques. He won the Grand Prix at the 1958 Brussels World's Fair and a gold medal at the 1962 Prague International Ceramics Exhibition, gaining international recognition. In 1970 he moved to the foot of Mt. Horai in Shiga Prefecture and built his climbing kiln, the Horai-gama, where he produced work for over 30 years. In 1985 he was designated a Living National Treasure (Important Intangible Cultural Property holder) for iron-glazed ceramics, and in 1986 he received the Medal with Purple Ribbon.

Dimensions: Diameter 12 cm / Height 8.5 cm (please allow for slight variation)

Condition: Confirmed to be free of cracks, though there may be age-related surface rubbing. Please refer to the photos for the item's current appearance and condition.