Description

Xandre Store Exclusive: Jiro Kinjo Okinawan Yachimun Masterpiece

Celebrating the Legacy of Okinawa's First Living National Treasure

Discover an exceptional piece of traditional Okinawan Yachimun (やちむん) pottery attributed to Jiro Kinjo (金城次郎, 1914-2004), Okinawa's first Living National Treasure (人間国宝). Crafted from natural Okinawan clay, this handcrafted ceramic bowl (chawan) features the energetic, hand-carved fish imagery (魚紋 / Fish-mon) that established Kinjo as an icon of modern Japanese ceramics.

Jiro Kinjo (金城次郎) - Fish Motif Ceramic Bowl (魚紋 茶碗 / マカイ)

The iconic fish motif (魚紋) is the ultimate hallmark of Jiro Kinjo’s artistic vocabulary, symbolizing Okinawa’s deep maritime connection through bold, dynamic lines and expressive forms.

Crafted in a classic flared Okinawan bowl profile (makai style) with a sturdy raised foot, the vessel displays hand-incised fish motifs carved directly into the clay body. The carved designs feature dark-etched outlines and subtle glaze pooling against a textured ash-grey clay surface, finished with a dark iron-glazed rim band.

Highlights

1. Living National Treasure Heritage: Attributed to Jiro Kinjo (金城次郎, 1914-2004), Okinawa's premier master potter.
2. Iconic Fish Motif (魚紋): Features Kinjo's signature hand-incised fish design with dynamic carved fins and expressive detailing.
3. Masterful Glaze & Texture: Natural ash-toned glazed surface with earthy stoneware micro-speckling and dark iron rim accent.
4. Artist Inscribed Base: Features Jiro Kinjo's characteristic incised mark ("次") etched near the lower foot ring.
5. Tactile Wheel-Thrown Form: Classic wide-aperture bowl shape designed for comfortable handling and functional elegance.

Specifications

1. Artist: Jiro Kinjo (金城次郎, 1914–2004) | Living National Treasure (人間国宝)
2. Origin & Craft Tradition: Okinawan Yachimun Pottery (やちむん), Okinawa Prefecture, Japan
3. Category / Form: Jiro Kinjo Yachimun / Ceramic Rice Bowl (Chawan / Makai) / Collector's Fine Craft
4. Motif: Fish Motif — 魚紋 (Fish-mon)
5. Technique & Materials: Wheel-thrown ceramic clay with hand-incised carving and mineral glaze finishes
6. Color Palette: Slate grey, ash beige, iron brown, and natural clay stoneware tones
7. Dimensions (Height x Diameter): Approx. 7.5–8.5 cm (3.0–3.3 in) height x 12.0–13.5 cm (4.7–5.3 in) top rim diameter
8. Weight: Approx. 280–350 g
9. Markings: Jiro Kinjo incised artist mark ("次") present near the foot ring
10. Quantity: One (1) individual ceramic vessel

Provenance & Physical Attribution

The exterior lower body near the foot features Jiro Kinjo's signature incised mark ("次") etched directly into the clay before firing. The expressive carving style, glaze character, and studio markings showcase traditional Kinjo pottery techniques.

Note: Attribution is based on physical markings, studio technique, and stylistic features. Minor variations in glaze pooling, pinholes, firing specks, and surface texture are natural characteristics of Jiro Kinjo's hand-carved works.

Care & Handling

1. Hand-wash gently using lukewarm water and a soft cloth.
2. Avoid harsh abrasive pads or chemical cleaners to preserve glaze integrity.
3. Not designed for dishwasher or microwave use.
4. Allow the bowl to air dry completely before storing.

Shipping & Collector Guarantee

1. Domestic & Global Shipping: Expertly packaged with specialized protective materials designed for delicate ceramic art.
2. International Orders: Shipped via secure express courier services. Import duties, taxes, and local destination charges are the responsibility of the purchaser.