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 cup 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 Cup (魚紋 湯呑)

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 robust, gently rounded cup silhouette with subtle wheel-thrown contouring, the vessel displays hand-incised fish motifs carved directly into the clay body. The carved designs feature iron-brown and subtle cobalt glaze accents against a textured sand-beige glaze body with delicate micro-crazing, crowned by a rich iron-glazed rim finish.

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 carved scales and dynamic fins.
3. Masterful Glaze & Texture: Natural sand-beige glazed surface with organic micro-crazing and dark iron rim accent.
4. Artist Inscribed Base: Features Jiro Kinjo's characteristic incised mark ("次") etched near the lower foot.
5. Tactile Wheel-Thrown Form: Designed with a flared upper body and tapered pedestal base for an exceptional hand feel.

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 Cup / 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: Warm sand beige, dark iron brown, subtle slate indigo, and natural clay tones
7. Dimensions (Height x Diameter): Approx. 8.5–9.5 cm (3.3–3.7 in) height x 8.0–9.0 cm (3.1–3.5 in) maximum width/diameter
8. Weight: Approx. 250–320 g
9. Markings: Jiro Kinjo incised artist mark ("次") present near the base
10. Quantity: One (1) individual ceramic vessel

Provenance & Physical Attribution

The exterior lower body 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 crazing, 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 cup 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.