Tea bowl (chawan) in Shino by Ito Mayama – 1952

This Mino chawan, signed Ito Mayama, is covered with a light, slightly ivory-colored Shino glaze, punctuated by small surface irregularities typical of this tradition. On the wall is an underglaze painted decoration, not calligraphic but floral, executed in bluish oxide which contrasts delicately with the light background. This simple and refined plant motif is in the spirit of wabi-cha where nature is suggested rather than represented realistically.

The shape is balanced: the curved rim retains the matcha foam and provides a pleasant sensation on the lips. The foot (kodai), clear and well-proportioned, ensures stability and allows a smooth grip during the tea ceremony. With its dimensions (height: 8 cm, diameter: 10.5 cm), it is a versatile format, suitable for both summer and winter use.

The piece comes with its original tomobako, inscribed 「五白梨茶碗」(Gohaku-nashi chawan), literally "white Shino tea bowl," as well as Mayama 真山's signature and red seal. The interior dedication specifies the date May 22, 1952 (Shōwa 27), which places this bowl within the postwar revival of Japanese ceramics.

Ito Mayama, a potter active in the Mino tradition, continues the legacy of Shino glazes, the first Japanese white glazes to appear in the late 16th century. Deeply linked to the wabi-cha established by Sen no Rikyū, Shino expresses an aesthetic of sobriety, assumed imperfection, and naturalness, which continues to appeal to lovers of chanoyu and contemporary design.