Bowl 19th century

This bowl was made in Japan by Nin’ami Dōhachi, sometime in the late 18th to mid-19th century. It's earthenware, made with a stoneware clay and decorated with slip. The bowl gets its character from Dōhachi’s expert manipulation of clay and glaze. The dark body of the bowl is punctuated by bold white blossoms, created with brushed slip— a liquid clay. These aren't just painted on; they're integral to the surface, adding a subtle texture. You can almost feel the motion of the potter's hand as it shaped the bowl and applied the decoration. This was no mere industrial process; it was the work of a highly skilled individual, carrying forward centuries of ceramic tradition. Considered alongside other art forms, an object like this helps us reconsider the usual hierarchies. Dōhachi brought sensitivity and care to a functional form, elevating it to something truly special. By attending to the material and the maker’s touch, we can appreciate the artistry inherent in craft.