A Shigaraki Ware Plate with Charming Rhythmic "Shinogi" Patterns

Masanori Yamamoto's "Shinogi Rim Plate M White" is a beautiful piece of pottery that blends the tradition of Shigaraki ware with his unique contemporary design.

The delicate shinogi pattern on the rim is carefully carved by hand, line by line, creating a rhythmic play of light and shadow across the entire plate.

The size is not flat but has a shallow bowl-like shape, which naturally adds a stylish touch when used for salads, curries, or pasta dishes. The pattern on the rim not only gives a vibrant impression to the dining table but also draws focus to the food, making it look more appealing.

As each piece is handmade, there are individual differences in color and carving. With use, it gains depth and luster, making each piece unique and enjoyable for its one-of-a-kind texture. 

Meals served on Masanori Yamamoto's stylish plates are sure to make everyday life more cherished.

※As each item is handmade, there may be slight individual differences.
※The black spots on the pieces are naturally occurring iron content in the clay that has been fired and oxidized. These are part of its unique character, so please compare the expressions of each piece and appreciate their differences.

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Artist Masanori Yamamoto - Pottery with Rhythmic and Dynamic "Shinogi" Patterns

Born in Shiga Prefecture in 1987, Masanori Yamamoto grew up in an environment steeped in ceramic tradition. He graduated from the Department of Ceramic Arts, Faculty of Art, Kyoto Seika University in 2009, where he thoroughly learned the fundamentals of pottery. Subsequently, in 2010, he completed the Small Potter's Wheel Course at the Shigaraki Ceramic Cultural Park Ceramic Technology Institute, gaining practical experience through working at a ceramic manufacturer.

Furthermore, in 2015, he completed the Glaze and Clay Course at the Shigaraki Ceramic Cultural Park Ceramic Technology Institute. He acquired deep knowledge and skills concerning glazes and clay, which further enhances the uniqueness of his works. Currently, in Shigaraki Town, Shiga Prefecture, he continues his pottery production under the trade name "Kozangama," inherited from his grandfather.

Characteristics of Masanori Yamamoto's Works

Masanori Yamamoto's works are characterized by "shinogi" patterns, carefully carved one by one by hand.The "shinogi" patterns are rhythmic and dynamic, giving a rich expression to the pottery. There are three series: one with diagonal "shinogi" patterns, another called "Nawame" (rope pattern) which creates a warm, knitted cable-like texture by carving vertical lines and then finely carving diagonal lines into the remaining parts, and the "Hana Shinogi" (flower shinogi) series, which gives a flamboyant, blooming flower impression.

Masanori Yamamoto's Pottery, Fusing Shigaraki Ware Tradition with Unique Sensibility

Masanori Yamamoto's pottery, crafted in the traditional kiln inherited from his grandfather, carries on the legacy of Shigaraki ware while also reflecting his unique sensibility. He produces a variety of pieces, including rimmed plates, soup cups, curry plates, teacups, and mugs. By coordinating the dining table with "shinogi" patterned items, a vibrant impression can be created. Moreover, his pieces are microwave and dishwasher safe, combining practicality for daily use with beauty, and are highly acclaimed for their food-enhancing design. He focuses on valuing the subtle expressions and textures unique to handmade items, and providing pottery that is light and easy to handle.