Skip to main content
Advanced Search
Storage jar
Storage jar

Storage jar

Place of Origin
  • Japan; Shigaraki, Shiga prefecture
Date1400-1500
PeriodMuromachi period (1392-1573)
MaterialsStoneware with natural ash glaze
DimensionsH. 21 1/4 in x Diam. 21 in, H. 54 cm x Diam. 53.3 cm
Credit LineThe Avery Brundage Collection
Object numberB66P38
DepartmentJapanese Art
ClassificationsCeramics
On View
On view
LocationGallery 31
More Information
Shigaraki ware jars of this shape were likely used to store grain. They were hung from storehouse ceilings by a rope tied around the jars’ short necks. This practice frequently caused breakage of the mouth rim, as seen in this jar. Since the 1400s, local people have made clay storage and water jars that are made of local clay and fired at a high temperature in hillside kilns in Shigaraki. Coil-built Shigaraki ware is distinguished by an olive-green glaze on the reddish-brown clay—an accidental result of ash settling on the jars during firing. The texture of shiny spots of melted quartz and feldspar also adds character to the clay body. The rustic quality of Shigaraki ware was admired by an early group of tea practitioners who came to treasure these otherwise utilitarian objects.