Large Japanese Antique Shigaraki Tsubo Jar

An antique Japanese stoneware storage jar, known as tsubo from Shigaraki kiln circa 17-18th century (early Edo possibly Momoyama period). The tsubo is of an impressive size at nearly 20 inches high, hand-built with the sandy clay from the local Biwa lake bed. The form is of an archaic flair with balance and confidence, exhibiting an irregular contour with deep circular scraping lines around its body. Characteristic of Shigaraki stoneware, the jar has a natural deep brown-orange-reddish hues that varies subtly across its surface, a thin ash glaze that is almost invisible and a rough granular texture. Many "accidents" during the firing process are evident on this jar as well, a few large amalgamated granule protrusions, some exploded clay bubbles and even two chunks of embedded feldspar, all adding to its unique appeal. Since Muromachi (1336-1568) period, the Shigaraki ware was sought after for tea ceremony exactly for these natural wabi-sabi qualities.
This tsubo makes a striking example of the Shigaraki stoneware. With its sculptural form, it feels strangely archaic and modern at the same time.