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A SHIGARAKI MIZUZASHI (WATER JAR), EDO PERIOD Japan, early 19th century. Heavily potted, of irregular cylindrical form, the stoneware body is covered with a warm beige to pale buff glaze with a fine, even crackle across the surface and an ash- to green-toned splash. The flush-fitting, flat lid is black-lacquered and fitted with a loop handle. Provenance: The Collection of Sam and Myrna Myers, Paris, France. Acquired between circa 1965-2012. Condition: Very good condition with minor wear and intentional firing flaws, including pitting, pooling, crackling and few dark spots. Two small chips to the cover. Weight: 1,303 g (total) Dimensions: Height 22.5 cm (excl. cover), 24.4 cm (incl. cover) Shigaraki, east of Kyoto, has been a kiln site for centuries, originally producing utilitarian wares such as storage jars and mortars. When the tea ceremony gained popularity in the sixteenth century, Shigaraki ceramicists were quick to adapt to the tea masters’ demand for rustic yet engaging vessels, such as this deceptively simple water jar. Whereas most potters take care to filter rocks out of their clay, those working in the Shigaraki region understand that the texture created by rocky inclusions of quartz and feldspar adds both tactile and visual interest to their wares. The artisans apply only minimal glaze, allowing the surface to retain its natural graininess. Auction result comparison: Type: Related Auction: Christie’s London, 14 May 2008, lot 5 Price: GBP 3,750 or approx. EUR 8,000 converted and adjusted for inflation at the time of writing. Description: A Shigaraki Mizuzashi [water jar], Momoyama Period (16th century) Expert remark: Compare the related form, style and glaze. Note the size (19 cm) and earlier date. Auction result comparison: Type: Related Auction: Christie’s London, 13 November 2002, lot 268 Price: GBP 5,736 or approx. EUR 15,000 converted and adjusted for inflation at the time of writing. Description: A Shigaraki Mizusashi [Fresh-Water Container] and a kakebanaike [Hanging Flower-arrangement vase], Edo period (early-mid 19th century) Expert remark: Compare the related form, style and glaze. Note the size (18.2 cm).