Vintage Japanese Shino-Gusuri Kumiwan Nested Bowl Set, Late Showa (1966-1989) | SKU: 26J-0562-3

Vintage Japanese Shino-Gusuri Kumiwan Nested Bowl Set, Late Showa (1966-1989) | SKU: 26J-0562-3

A rare studio ceramic kumiwan set in earthy shino-gusuri glaze, presented in a signed tomobako wooden storage box.

A kumiwan is a traditional Japanese set of nested ceramic bowls used for serving food at the table -- typically in kaiseki-style dining or everyday household meals. This handcrafted set showcases a muted olive-brown glaze consistent with shino-gusuri (Shino-style glaze), a celebrated tradition in Japanese ceramic art known for its warm, ash-influenced tones and subtle surface variation. Each bowl displays a beautifully uneven glaze surface with pale pooling and dark fired accents, hallmarks of the wabi-sabi aesthetic that prizes natural imperfection over uniformity. The dark, rough-textured foot ring on the larger bowl reveals the iron-rich stoneware clay body beneath, further anchoring these pieces in the mingei (folk craft) sensibility. The set includes one larger serving bowl alongside several smaller individual bowls, all wheel-thrown with an assured, slightly irregular profile that speaks to skilled studio craftsmanship. A paper label affixed to the base of the main bowl adds a note of provenance, consistent with vintage Japanese ceramic collections.

In a modern home, this kumiwan set works beautifully as functional tableware for ramen, noodle soups, or shared side dishes -- bringing an authentic Japanese dining atmosphere to any table setting. The larger bowl doubles as a striking fruit bowl or countertop accent piece in a kitchen or dining room, perfectly suited to Japandi style or minimalist decor. Displayed together on an open shelf or sideboard, the nested stack becomes a living room accent that tells a quiet story of Japanese craft heritage. The signed tomobako box adds significant collector appeal, making this set a compelling gift for Japanophiles or ceramics enthusiasts. A vintage Japanese ceramic bowl set of this character and provenance is increasingly sought after by collectors of mid-century studio pottery.

• Origin: Japan
• Era: 1966-1989 (Late Showa)
• Material: Iron-rich stoneware with shino-gusuri (Shino-style) glaze; olive-brown matte surface with pale glaze pooling and dark fired accents; rough unglazed foot ring
• Use: Kumiwan -- nested bowl set for serving at the Japanese table; suited to kaiseki-style or everyday dining
• Modern Use: Functional serving bowls for ramen or side dishes; fruit bowl or kitchen countertop accent; decorative shelf display in Japandi or wabi-sabi styled interiors
• Features: Multiple graduated bowls including one larger serving bowl and several smaller individual bowls; irregular hand-thrown profiles with natural glaze variation; dark iron-rich stoneware foot ring; paper provenance label on base; presented in a signed tomobako (wooden storage box) with brushed inscription and red seal referencing shino-gusuri kumiwan
• Dimensions: --
• Condition: Good vintage condition; natural glaze irregularities consistent with hand-firing; a metal repair staple is visible on one bowl, consistent with age and traditional ceramic repair practice

A rare and collectible set of vintage Japanese studio ceramics -- earthy, expressive, and deeply rooted in the wabi-sabi tradition that continues to inspire modern design around the world.

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.