① What is Shino?
A guide to understanding Shino pottery, one of the most celebrated styles of Japanese ceramics from the Mino region.
English
Shino ware is one of the most celebrated styles of Japanese pottery, originating in the Mino region during the Momoyama period (16th century).
It is known for its soft white feldspar glaze, warm textures, and natural expressions created during firing.
日本語
志野焼は、日本の桃山時代（16世紀）に美濃地方で生まれた陶芸様式です。
長石釉による柔らかな白色と、焼成によって生まれる自然な景色が特徴です。
② How to appreciate Shino
Typical characteristics include:
• Soft white feldspar glaze
• Small pinholes and subtle surface textures
• Warm fire marks created during firing
• The natural character of the clay
• Slightly irregular and organic forms
English
When appreciating Shino pottery, collectors often look for the natural interaction between clay, glaze, and fire.
Typical features include:
• Soft white feldspar glaze
• Small pinholes and surface texture
• Warm fire marks created during firing
• Natural and slightly irregular forms
日本語
志野を鑑賞する際は、土・釉薬・火の相互作用によって生まれる自然な表情を見ます。
代表的な見どころ
・長石釉の柔らかな白
・釉薬に生まれる小さな穴
・焼成による火色
・土の質感
・自然な歪み
③ Gas kiln vs Wood firing
English
Shino can be fired in both gas kilns and traditional wood kilns.
Wood firing often produces dramatic fire marks and natural variations.
Gas firing allows artists to carefully control the glaze and surface texture.
Both approaches create unique expressions of Shino.
日本語
志野は薪窯でもガス窯でも焼成されます。
薪窯では火の影響による大胆な景色が生まれ、
ガス窯では釉薬や表面の質感を繊細にコントロールすることができます。
どちらも異なる魅力を持っています。
④ Contemporary Shino
- 鈴木 蔵 Osamu Suzuki
- 鈴木 都 Shu Suzuki
- 林 友加 Yuka Hayashi
- 谷口 治 Osamu Taniguchi
- 岸野 寛 Kan Kishino
- 後藤 秀樹 Hideki Goto
- 鈴木 伸治 Shinnji Suzuki
English
Today, many contemporary artists continue to explore the possibilities of Shino pottery, creating new interpretations while respecting its tradition.
日本語
現在も多くの作家が志野の可能性を探求し、伝統を踏まえながら新しい表現を生み出しています。
Looking for Shino pottery?
Ito Bijyutsuten introduces contemporary Japanese ceramic artists and carefully selected works of Shino ware.