Large Jar, 17th or 18th century

The Shigaraki kilns in Shiga prefecture have been an active pottery center since the eighth century. The local clay used for making domestic bowls and jars is distinguished by a light sandy texture and a high proportion of feldspar granules that appear as glassy white spots on the surface of the fired vessel. Connoisseurs of Japanese pottery have long admired the robust shapes and warm colors exhibited in utilitarian vessels like this large jar. The rich reddish brown surface highlighted with yellow ash glaze is common among Shigaraki wares.