Yoshihiro Sako is a potter based in Shigaraki, one of Japan’s most renowned ceramic regions. Since entering apprenticeship in his early twenties, he has spent more than three decades working in the mountainous landscape of Shigaraki, placing collaboration with nature at the core of his practice.
This work is primarily formed from locally sourced refractory white clay from Shigaraki, a clay low in iron and rich in coarse stone particles, known for its exceptional resistance to high temperatures. To this base, Sako adds a carefully measured amount of iron-rich red clay, following his own formula. The interaction between these materials creates depth and subtle variation during firing.
No glaze is applied, instead, wood ash naturally melts during firing to form a glaze.
The piece is fired in a traditional anagama kiln fueled with red pine, allowing flame and ash to directly shape the surface.
Flame, ash, and long hours of firing cause vitrification on the surface, producing a texture that feels both rugged and dense. While the surface appears shaped by chance, finely incised lines reminiscent of bamboo leaves are deliberately carved into the clay, revealing a quiet order beneath the apparent chaos.
Trusting the forces of fire and time, Sako nonetheless maintains strict control over form and process, from wheel throwing to the reuse of carved clay shavings. Born from nature and shaped through dialogue with it, this work brings a subtle presence of the natural world into everyday living spaces.
Size: Ø approx. 7.5 cm × H approx. 7.2 cm
Capacity: approx. 180 ml
