An artwork on Galleree from Cleveland Museum of Art.
About the artwork
Storage Jarlate 1300s–1400s
The red color of this jar comes from iron in the clay. Natural ash glaze settled on the vessel during firing. The rim would have been complete with a slightly flared lip. Around the collar is an incised pattern resembling cypress fences, a common scene in the Japanese landscape. Intended for grain storage, rustic vessels like this one were also prized by tea enthusiasts, who appreciated the uncalculated beauty of the glaze and the asymmetry of these humble vessels.
This jar was probably made using a coiling method, where coils of clay are stacked atop each other and smoothed to form its structure.
Stoneware with natural ash glaze (Shigaraki ware)
height: 45.7 cm (18 in.); Diameter: 42 cm (16 9/16 in.)
John L. Severance Fund
In a quiet corner of the world, a simple jar stands, bathed in the warm glow of soft sunlight. Its vibrant red hue is not merely a color; it tells a tale of the earth beneath it. The iron nestled within the clay gave birth to this charming shade, whispering of the soil from which it was formed.
As it was fired, natural ash danced over its surface, settling like a gentle snowfall, creating a unique glaze that captures the essence of the firing process. Imagine the heat of the kiln, the crackle of clay, and the transformative power of fire turning raw materials into a work of art.
This jar carries a hint of elegance with its slightly flared lip, a graceful touch that draws the eye. Around its collar, a delicate pattern has been incised—lines that evoke the cypress trees swaying along serene Japanese landscapes, fencing in the beauty of nature. Each line tells a story, inviting the viewer to step closer and ponder the landscapes it represents.
Originally designed for grain storage, this rustic vessel transcends its utilitarian purpose. In the hands of tea enthusiasts, it became a cherished piece, highly valued not just for its function but for the uncalculated beauty that is intrinsic to its glaze. There lies a quiet joy in its asymmetry, a reminder that perfection can be found in the imperfect—a reflection of life itself.
As one gazes at this jar, it becomes clear that it is much more than an object; it is a vessel of stories, a connection to nature, and a celebration of craftsmanship that resonates through time.
About the artist
Creating transformative experiences through art “for the benefit of all the people forever.”The Cleveland Museum of Art is renowned for the quality and breadth of its collection, which includes more than 66,500 artworks and spans 6,000 years of achievement in the arts. The artworks shared on this platform are sourced from the museum's Open Access data under the CC0 license. No endorsement is implied.Address: 11150 East Boulevard, Cleveland, OH, USA 44106
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