Bizen Shuhai

This is a Bizen Shuhai by Mitsuhiro Kaneshige, who was born into Kaneshige Ritouen, one of the six traditional Bizen kiln families, yet pursues his own path in pottery without being bound by the family name.

This work was created through a combination of electric kiln and wood-firing under a variety of firing conditions, as he sought to approach the texture and presence of the old ceramics he admires.

It is a Shuhai characterized by a rich, substantial surface created through multiple firings, together with deep Kigoma. The clay tone beautifully recreates the distinctive chocolate-like color found in old Bizen ware.

The control of the fire pattern, made possible through multiple firings, is also excellent. Slightly greenish Kigoma and subdued Ito-Goma appear across the surface, creating a highly engaging fire pattern.

The gently triangular body fits very comfortably in the hand, making this Shuhai easy to use despite its powerful appearance.

The carefully considered wheel marks inside, reminiscent of a pool of tea, are beautifully resolved, and the trimmed foot, with its crepe-like wrinkles, is equally impressive.

Mitsuhiro Kaneshige was born in 1988 in Imbe, Bizen City, into Kaneshige Ritouen, one of the six kiln families of Bizen.

He entered the Bizen Ceramic Art Center in 2017 and held his first kiln firing in 2020.

In 2023, he received the Shubi Prize at the Chanoyu no Zokeiten, and in 2024, he held his first solo exhibition.