Red Shino Tea Bowl

Kan Matsuzaki 

Kan Matsuzaki was born in Tokyo in 1977. His work as a Japanese ceramic artist is well known for its intricate glaze combinations and meticulous attention to surface detail.  

Kan is the son of the esteemed potter Ken Matsuzaki, a prominent figure in international ceramics, whose pieces are distinguished by their elaborate glaze applications and complex compositions, showcasing contemporary interpretations of classic forms. Kan shares the same kiln with his father when firing their works, capturing inspiration – directly and indirectly – from his work.  They still work and collaborate in the same kiln honing the techniques from generation to generation. 

Kan Matsuzaki has exhibited his work internationally, including at the Ippodo Gallery in New York, where his pieces have been featured in their curated shows. 

Shino glaze, whether in its soft white or distinctive red form, is celebrated for its depth, texture, and interplay of colour, created through careful chemistry and firing. Originating in the Mino kilns of 16th-century Japan, it was among the first high-fired white-glazed ceramics, prized by tea masters for its expressive surfaces. The glaze is primarily feldspar-based, containing natural sodium and iron, which react under high heat in the kiln. During firing, iron in the clay and glaze subtly oxidises, producing the warm red and orange tones in areas where the glaze is thin or the flame is most intense. Sodium helps the glaze flow and melt, creating the smooth, pooling surface and the tiny pinholes that give Shino its characteristic texture. The resulting effect is a luminous, richly varied surface, where subtle shifts in colour and texture are a direct record of the interaction between materials, flame, and time.

This bowl reflects the character of traditional Shino ware from Mino, defined by a thick, milky feldspar glaze and a warm, rustic spirit. Deep red tones caused by fire marks with orange tones that emerge where flame and clay meet. Fine pinholes add depth and movement to bring a bold contrasting colour.

Comes with its own wooden box signed by the artist

Size: 10cm D x 10cm H 

Box: 14cm H x 15cm W x15 cm L