Description

Xandre Store Exclusive: Toshio Kinjo Okinawan Yachimun Masterpiece

Continuing the Masterful Ceramic Heritage of Yomitan Village, Okinawa

Discover an exceptional piece of traditional Okinawan Yachimun (やちむん) pottery crafted by master potter Toshio Kinjo (金城敏男), eldest son of Okinawa's first Living National Treasure, Jiro Kinjo. Hand-thrown from natural Okinawan clay and fired in Yomitan Village, Okinawa, this handcrafted ceramic guinomi (sake cup) carries forward the iconic hand-carved fish motif (魚紋 / Fish-mon) and vibrant folk art aesthetic that defines the Kinjo lineage.

Toshio Kinjo (金城敏男) - Fish Motif Ceramic Guinomi (魚紋 ぐい呑)

The iconic fish motif (魚紋) is a central hallmark of the Kinjo family's artistic language, reflecting Okinawa’s maritime soul through energetic, carved contours and expressive movement. Crafted in a classic flared cup silhouette with a sturdy elevated foot ring, the interior basin displays a dynamic hand-incised fish motif carved directly into the clay surface. Rich iron-amber brushwork and slate-blue glaze accents highlight the carved fish inside the bowl, complemented by exterior wave/scale carving and iron glaze splashes around the outer body and foot.

Highlights

1. Yomitan Village Craftsmanship: Handcrafted by master potter Toshio Kinjo (金城敏男) in Yomitan Village, Okinawa.
2. Kinjo Lineage Heritage: Represents the direct artistic legacy and master technique passed down through the Kinjo family.
3. Iconic Fish Motif (魚紋): Features Toshio Kinjo's signature hand-incised fish design carved inside the cup basin.
4. Classic Guinomi Form: Flared rim cup with an elevated pedestal base designed for traditional sake service.
5. Artist Signed Base: Features Toshio Kinjo's characteristic incised mark ("ト" / To or "次") etched inside the recessed foot.

Specifications

1. Artist: Toshio Kinjo (金城敏男)
2. Studio / Provenance: Kinjo Kiln (金城窯), Yomitan Village, Okinawa, Japan
3. Origin & Craft Tradition: Okinawan Yachimun Pottery (やちむん), Yomitan, Okinawa Prefecture
4. Category / Form: Toshio Kinjo Yachimun / Ceramic Guinomi (Sake Cup) / Fine Craft
5. Motif: Fish Motif — 魚紋 (Fish-mon)
6. Technique & Materials: Wheel-thrown ceramic clay with hand-incised carving and mineral glaze finishes
7. Color Palette: Warm sand grey, iron amber brown, slate blue glaze, and natural stoneware clay
8. Dimensions (Height x Rim Diameter): Approx. 5.0–5.8 cm (2.0–2.3 in) height x 8.0–9.0 cm (3.1–3.5 in) top rim diameter
9. Weight: Approx. 130–170 g
10. Markings: Toshio Kinjo incised artist mark present on the unglazed base recess
11. Quantity: One (1) individual ceramic sake cup

Studio Craftsmanship & Markings

The recessed underside of the foot ring features master potter Toshio Kinjo's signature artist mark etched directly into the clay before firing. The precise hand-carving, iron glaze brushwork, and rich stoneware tones highlight traditional Yomitan pottery techniques.

Note: Minor variations in glaze pooling, surface crazing, pinholes, and firing marks are natural hallmarks of handcrafted Yachimun studio ceramics.

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.