Vintage Japanese Mizusashi (Tea Ceremony Water Jar), Late Showa 1966-1989 | SKU: 26J-0562-11

Vintage Japanese Mizusashi (Tea Ceremony Water Jar), Late Showa 1966-1989 | SKU: 26J-0562-11

A handcrafted stoneware tea ceremony water jar with combed horizontal banding, fitted lid, and tomobako storage box -- a quietly powerful expression of the wabi-sabi aesthetic.

A mizusashi is a traditional Japanese fresh water jar used in chanoyu (the tea ceremony) to hold cold water for replenishing the iron kettle and rinsing utensils. Among the most sculptural of all tea ceremony vessels, the mizusashi sits at the heart of the temae (procedure) and is chosen with great care to reflect the season and the spirit of the gathering. This example features a generously rounded globular body in warm ochre-toned stoneware, covered in a matte ash-tone glaze that shifts subtly across the surface. A series of closely spaced horizontal combed lines encircles the upper shoulder and continues across the fitted lid -- a classic decorative technique that adds quiet rhythm and tactile depth to the form. The small knob finial on the lid is sculpted with restrained elegance. The unglazed foot ring bears visible kiln spur scars, evidence of traditional single-firing stacking practice, and an impressed artist seal is present on the base, though full attribution awaits closer expert examination. The piece is accompanied by its original tomobako wooden storage box, brushed with an inscription in ink and stamped with a red seal -- a mark of presentation quality consistent with a named studio or kiln. This is a considered piece of vintage Japanese ceramic art rooted in the living tradition of handcrafted Japanese chado ware.

In a modern home, this mizusashi is as striking as it is versatile. Its generous globular silhouette and warm earthy tone make it an ideal living room accent piece -- displayed on a low shelf, entryway console, or as a standalone sculptural object on a coffee table. The fitted lid keeps it dust-free while adding visual completeness. Fill it as a small indoor planter for a trailing succulent or air plant, or use it as a lidded vessel for bath salts or dried botanicals in a bathroom organizer setting. Its understated Japandi style -- organic form, neutral palette, tactile surface -- integrates effortlessly into minimalist decor, wabi-sabi interiors, and mid-century modern arrangements alike. The included tomobako box adds collector appeal and makes this a distinctive gift for Japanophiles or ceramics enthusiasts who appreciate the intersection of art, ritual, and everyday beauty.

• Origin: Japan
• Era: 1966-1989 (Late Showa)
• Material: Stoneware with matte ash-tone glaze; unglazed foot with kiln spur marks; artist seal on base; accompanied by original tomobako wooden storage box
• Use: Mizusashi -- fresh water jar used in chanoyu (Japanese tea ceremony) to hold cold water during the temae procedure
• Modern Use: Living room sculptural accent or Japandi decor object; small indoor planter for succulents or air plants; lidded vessel for bath salts or dried botanicals in a bathroom organizer
• Features: Globular body with closely combed horizontal banding on upper shoulder and lid; small knob finial; wide open mouth with dark unglazed interior; circular foot with visible kiln spur scars; impressed artist seal on base; tomobako box with brushed ink inscription and red seal stamp
• Dimensions: 8"Diameter x 8"H
• Condition: Excellent

A beautifully proportioned piece of vintage Japanese ceramic art -- steeped in the quiet philosophy of chanoyu and ready to bring wabi-sabi warmth to any modern living space.

We use professional studio lighting to highlight the natural character of the wood. As a result, the tone may appear slightly warmer than under natural daylight.

All vintage items are sold as-is. Each piece may exhibit signs of age, including scratches, wear, or minor imperfections. These are not considered defects but natural evidence of the item’s authenticity and age.