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YUTEKI TENMOKU GUINOMI — KIMURA MORIKAZU
Oil Spot Glaze | Signed Tomobako | Kyoto Master
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A rare Yuteki Tenmoku sake cup (guinomi) by Kimura
Morikazu (1921–2015) — one of the foremost masters
of Tenmoku glaze research in modern Japan — bearing
his incised signature on the base and accompanied
by the original signed tomobako.
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HISTORICAL CONTEXT
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Tenmoku (天目) glazes represent one of the most
technically demanding and historically significant
ceramic traditions in East Asia. Originating in the
Jian kilns of Song Dynasty China (960–1279), these
iron-saturated black glazes were prized by Zen
Buddhist monks and imported to Japan where they
became synonymous with the highest ideals of the
tea ceremony.
Among the many expressions of Tenmoku, Yuteki —
the "oil spot" glaze — is considered the rarest
and most coveted. The silvery iridescent spots are
formed through a precise and largely unpredictable
interaction between iron oxide and kiln atmosphere
during firing — a process so difficult to control
that even experienced masters cannot guarantee the
result.
Kimura Morikazu devoted his life to the
reconstruction of Song Dynasty Tenmoku techniques,
achieving results that earned international
recognition and the honour of presentation to the
Japanese Imperial Household.
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AESTHETIC & TACTILE DETAILS
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The interior of this guinomi presents a
breathtaking Yuteki effect: silver-grey iridescent
spots of varying size drift across a deep, lacquered
obsidian ground — evoking stars scattered across a
midnight sky, shifting in tone as the light moves
across the surface.
The exterior is covered in a rich, deeply pooled
black glaze that flows toward the lower body,
thinning at the rim to reveal the warm stoneware
beneath. The form is confident and substantial —
the robust weight of the stoneware contrasts
beautifully with the refined organic curve of the
drinking rim.
The kodai (foot ring) is left unglazed, revealing
the raw clay body and the deeply incised signature
"Morikazu" (盛和) — confidently cut into the base
with the assurance of a master at the height of
his powers.
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ARTIST PROFILE
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Kimura Morikazu (木村盛和, 1921–2015)
Kyoto
Kimura Morikazu stands as one of the great figures
in the history of modern Japanese ceramics. A native
of Kyoto — Japan's ancient capital and the heart of
its ceramic tradition — he devoted his life to the
study and reconstruction of Song Dynasty Tenmoku
glaze techniques, with a particular focus on the
near-mythical Yuteki (oil spot) and Yohen (iridescent
halo) effects.
His research combined deep historical scholarship
with rigorous studio practice, resulting in works
of exceptional quality that were presented to the
Japanese Imperial Household — the highest honour
accorded to a Japanese artist. His pieces are held
in major private collections internationally and
remain among the most sought-after examples of
modern Tenmoku ceramics.
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PROVENANCE & BOX
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This guinomi is accompanied by its original
tomobako — the artist-signed wooden storage box —
bearing the artist's calligraphy and cinnabar seal
on the lid.
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CONDITION & SPECIFICATIONS
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Condition : Good vintage condition. There is a
small singular chip on the rim — a
mark of history that does not affect
the structural integrity or the
viewing of the glaze surface.
This is reflected honestly in the
pricing of this piece.
Height : 3.5 cm
Diameter : 8.4 cm
Weight : 192 g (221 g with tomobako)
Material : Stoneware with Yuteki Tenmoku
(oil spot) glaze
Technique : Yuteki Tenmoku
Signature : Incised "Morikazu" (盛和) on base
Origin : Kyoto, Japan
Box : Original tomobako signed and sealed
by the artist
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SHIPPING
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Shipped via Japan Post EMS — fully tracked and insured.
DHL or FedEx may be used depending on destination and logistics.
Each item is carefully wrapped in protective cushioning and secured
in a double-walled cardboard box for safe international transit.
Estimated delivery: approximately one week.
Delivery times may vary by country, region, and customs procedures.
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DUTIES & TAXES
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Import duties, taxes, and VAT are not included in the item price
or shipping cost. These fees are the responsibility of the buyer
and are levied by the destination country.
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DAMAGE & LOSS
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In the unlikely event of transit damage or loss, please retain all
packaging materials and contact us immediately with photographs.
We will assist with the insurance claim process.
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RETURNS
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All items are unique antiques or artworks — returns are not accepted
unless the item significantly differs from the description.
Please contact us within 7 days of receipt if this applies.
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ABOUT OUR LISTINGS
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Every item is personally selected and described with meticulous
attention to detail. Colors and textures may appear slightly
different depending on your screen and lighting conditions.
Please message us with any questions before placing a bid.
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ABOUT HOJO
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Based in Tobe Town, Ehime Prefecture — the 250-year-old birthplace
of Tobe ware — HOJO was founded to bring the profound art of
Japanese ceramics to collectors around the world.
From masterworks by renowned artists to rare finds from hidden kilns,
every piece is chosen for the quality and dignity of the work itself.