Kaneshige Tōyō, Japanese, 1896 - 1967 Flower vase with handles, 1955 Bizen ware; stoneware with natural ash glaze Promised gift of Tamara and Michael Root L2023.30.41

Bizen: Contemporary Expressions of an Ancient Japanese Pottery

Bizen: Contemporary Expressions of an Ancient Japanese Pottery

May 25, 2024 - February 16, 2025
Gallery 251, 252, 253
Free Exhibition

Bizen ware, characterized by its rich reddish-brown clay with natural ash glaze, is one of Japan’s six pottery traditions. Originating from today’s Okayama prefecture on the Seto Inland Sea, its history reaches back to the 14th century. It peaked during the late 16th century when the tea masters in and around Kyoto, the center of culture in Japan, found it most appealing. With the modernization of Japan in the mid-19th century, Bizen almost disappeared, but the tradition was revived in the 1930s and many artists since have explored its potential. While some have stayed closer to conventional forms, others have surprised with new shapes while staying true to the core of Bizen. This exhibition showcases the journey in Bizen from the 16th century to the 21st.

Kaneshige Tōyō, Japanese, 1896 - 1967 Flower vase with handles, 1955 Bizen ware; stoneware with natural ash glaze Promised gift of Tamara and Michael Root L2023.30.41