Koshigaraki
Stone Burst
Stone Burst refers to small spots where feldspar contained in the clay bursts during firing and becomes visible on the surface. If you notice tiny areas along the rim that look slightly chipped, these are places where small stones have burst and disappeared in the heat of the kiln. These natural marks are a characteristic feature of pottery and do not affect its use or quality.
Feldspar Particles
Shigaraki clay contains a high amount of feldspar. When the kiln temperature reaches around 1250–1280°C, the feldspar melts and forms small, white, glassy specks on the surface of the clay. These specks are affectionately called “kani-no-me”—literally “crab’s eyes”—for their delicate, dotted appearance. They are a natural feature of Shigaraki ware, reflecting the character of the clay and the heat of the kiln.
Kannyū
Kannyū refers to the fine crackle pattern that appears when the pottery cools after firing. It forms naturally as the clay body and glaze contract at different rates. If you listen closely beside a cooling piece, you may even hear a gentle “ping... ping...”—the sound of the kannyū forming. These delicate lines are a quiet mark of the ceramic’s life and a cherished feature of traditional pottery.
Color Variation
Koshigaraki pieces use a traditional glaze made from natural materials, giving them a wide and organic range of colors. Through yōhen—the transformation that occurs in the kiln’s flame—layers of color overlap to create subtle, one-of-a-kind patterns and a deeply expressive surface. Each piece reflects the quiet beauty born from clay and fire.
Iron Inclusions
Clay used for pottery contains various natural elements such as iron and microorganisms. During firing, these components may appear as small black spots on the surface. Each piece has been carefully inspected and meets our quality standards. We hope you will appreciate these marks as part of the natural character and charm of ceramic ware.
Enjoy with Appreciation
Every mark and texture in pottery has its own story. Each expression is there for a reason—born from the materials, the hands that shaped it, and the fire that completed it. We believe that imagining how a piece was made while using it brings a deeper sense of connection and warmth to your daily life.
