Kuro-raku Nonkou Seven Types of Tea Cups
Accessories
Inner box: White paulownia
Inside lid: Inscription by Joshin Sōsai
Provenance
Murahiko family, Kanazawa
Dimensions
Height: 8.4 cm Diameter: 12.3-12.5 cm Foot diameter: 5.2 cm Foot height: 0.7 cm Weight: 303 g
The name “Shishin-sai” is said to refer to the white snake and scorpion glaze on the front, which resembles a bridge, and is associated with the Noh play ‘Ishibashi’ (Stone Bridge).
The overall shape is thin, but the rim is particularly thin and curves inward to form a so-called “hamagata” shape. The rim is varied, with high and low points resembling a mountain path.
The sharp, high foot perfectly showcases the brilliance of Nonkou’s technique.
The base is flat in a single line, with sharp corners. The mark is vivid, and the incision at the base is deep.
The jet-black glaze is exquisite, with the snake and scorpion glaze forming a scene on the front. The clay body has a thin layer of water glaze, and the base has three eyes.
