An antique set of 5 beautiful E-Shino plates with iron glaze depicting floral motifs within concentric circles under two layers of pock-marked and deeply fissured feldspathic glaze. Exquisitely crafted, they are 22 cm (just less than 9 inches) diameter, and 3 cm (just more than 1 inch) high to the upturned rim.
Shino pottery is one of Japan's most renowned and distinct ceramic styles, originating in the late 16th century during the Momoyama period (1573–1600). It is particularly associated with the Mino region, located in present-day Gifu Prefecture. The style is celebrated for its rustic simplicity, irregular shapes, and earthy glazes, which reflect the aesthetic values of the Japanese tea ceremony. The production of Shino wares centered around the Mino kilns, which were among the most significant ceramic production centers in Japan during the Momoyama period. The potters in this region experimented with local clays and innovative glazing techniques, leading to the creation of Shino pottery which is credited as being the first “white” pottery in Japanese history. During the 17th century, the popularity of Shino pottery declined as other ceramic styles, such as Oribe and Seto wares, gained favor. It did not wholly disappear as is often stated, however Shino experienced a resurgence thanks to the efforts of potters and scholars who sought to revive traditional Japanese ceramics in the early 20th century.
