Nezumi Shino

Nezumi Shino, a substyle of Shino ware, is distinguished by its soft gray glaze, produced by applying iron underglaze beneath a feldspar coating. Often decorated with brush-painted grasses and natural motifs, Nezumi Shino pieces embody rustic simplicity and the refined aesthetics of the Japanese tea ceremony.

Nezumi Shino is a subtype of Shino ware originating in the Mino Province kilns (present-day Gifu Prefecture) during the late Momoyama period (late 16th century). It is named Nezumi (meaning “mouse”) for its characteristic soft gray tone, which resembles the color of a mouse’s fur.

History

Nezumi Shino developed as a variation of traditional Shino ware, offering a more subdued aesthetic compared to the brighter white of Muji Shino. The muted gray tones were achieved by adjusting the clay composition and firing conditions. Nezumi Shino became popular among tea masters who favored restrained elegance.

Characteristics

Nezumi Shino is known for:

• Soft gray glaze (鼠色, Nezumi-iro) with subtle variations in shade.
• Delicate iron-oxide brush decorations, often understated and partially obscured by glaze.
• Rustic texture highlighting the natural qualities of the clay.
• Warm, earthy appearance, well-suited for the wabi-sabi aesthetic of the Japanese tea ceremony.

Cultural significance

Nezumi Shino embodies restraint and simplicity, offering a refined alternative to more vivid Shino styles. Its soft gray tones and subtle decoration make it ideal for tea ceremony wares, where muted beauty and texture are highly appreciated.

Modern production

Today Nezumi Shino continues to be produced in Gifu Prefecture. Contemporary potters maintain traditional techniques while exploring variations in glaze tone, texture, and form.

See also

• Shino ware
• Muji Shino
• E-Shino
• Aka Shino

External links

• Tajimi Tourism Association (in Japanese)

References

• "Nezumi-shino." Ceramics Story (Turuta.jp). Accessed 2 December 2025.
• "Nezumi-Shino | RESOURCE." Kogei Standard. Accessed 2 December 2025.
• "Gosu Slips and Nezumi Shino." WabiSabi-Keramik. Accessed 2 December 2025.
• "Nezumi shino dish with willows design." Collection of the Suntory Museum of Art. Accessed 2 December 2025.
• "Shino-Keramik." German-language article on Shino ceramics. Accessed 2 December 2025.
• "Shino." (Overview of Japanese Shino ceramics.) EY-Net Japanese Pottery Primer. Accessed 2 December 2025.