Shino ware

Shino ware is a style of Japanese pottery that originated in the kilns of Mino Province (present-day Gifu Prefecture) during the late Momoyama period (late 16th century). It is one of the substyles historically associated with Seto ware and the Mino kilns.

History

Shino ware emerged as part of a wave of innovation in Japanese ceramics during the late 1500s, a period closely tied to the development of the Japanese tea ceremony. It is believed to have been first produced at kilns in Kisogawa, Tajimi, and Mizunami in Gifu Prefecture.

Its distinctive white glaze and rustic charm made it popular among tea masters such as Sen no Rikyū and his successors. Shino ware was among the first Japanese wares to use a feldspar-based white glaze.

Characteristics

Shino ware is known for:

• White feldspar glaze (志野釉, Shino-yū), producing a milky or creamy surface.
• Iron-oxide decoration, often in the form of simple brushwork depicting grasses, flowers, or abstract motifs.
• Subtle color variations ranging from pure white to soft pink or orange tones caused by firing conditions.
• A thick, almost cushion-like texture of the glaze.

Types

Different variations developed over time, including:

• Muji Shino – plain white glaze without decoration.
• E-Shino – decorated with iron-oxide brushwork under the glaze.
• Nezumi Shino – gray-toned glaze with a fine pattern, resembling mouse fur.
• Aka Shino – reddish Shino created through specific firing techniques.

Cultural significance

Shino ware became a hallmark of tea ceremony aesthetics, embodying the principles of wabi-sabi through its irregular forms, warm colors, and natural textures. It represents one of the earliest fully Japanese styles of glazed pottery, distinct from earlier Chinese or Korean influences.

Modern production

While historically tied to Mino, Shino ware is now produced in various pottery centers across Japan, with Gifu Prefecture still the main hub. Contemporary potters continue to experiment with glaze formulas and firing methods to recreate and expand upon classic Shino styles.

See also

• Oribe ware
• Ki-Seto
• Seto ware
• Japanese tea ceremony

External links

• Tajimi City official website (in Japanese)
• Tajimi Tourism Association (in Japanese)