Shozan Kiln Espresso Cup - Brown Shino - Round / 荘山窯 紅志野 デミタスコーヒー
Shino ware (志野焼) holds a special place in Japanese ceramics for the warmth and depth that emerge through use. Originating in Mino during the Momoyama period (桃山時代), it is known for its thick white feldspar glaze, softly irregular surface, and subtle fire-born colour changes that make each piece feel deeply individual. Rather than aiming for perfect smoothness, Shino is valued for the richness of its surface — the gentle pinholes, fine crackles, yuzu-skin-like texture (柚子肌), and the reddish “fire colour” that appears where the clay shows through. These are not flaws to be hidden, but part of the character that has long been appreciated in Japan, especially in tea ceramics. Shino has been admired for centuries for its bold forms, quiet strength, and the way it reveals both the hand of the maker and the work of the kiln.
In this piece by Shozan Kiln (荘山窯), those qualities can be felt not only in its appearance, but also in the experience of living with it. Shozan Kiln, based in Toki, Gifu, is particularly known for Shino ware and for continuing the expression of beni-Shino (紅志野), a soft pink-toned variation of Shino that has been developed across two generations. Their work carries the generous, grounded feeling often associated with Shino: a form with presence, a glaze with movement, and a surface that grows more familiar over time. One of the reasons Shino has remained so loved in Japan is that it responds beautifully to use — tea, sake, oil, and even washing gradually deepen its character, allowing the vessel to age with the owner. That sense of change over time is part of its beauty. Rather than remaining static, Shino becomes richer through daily life, which is why it is often treasured not only as an object to admire, but as one to use for many years.
What makes Shozan Kiln especially meaningful to us is also something deeply personal. This family kiln is connected to one of Osara’s own team members, who has supported our daily work with great dedication for many years, while holding, on the other side of the world, a lasting bond with where she comes from and where she belongs. In sharing this kiln, we feel we are also sharing a part of her story.
For many years, Shozan Kiln has taken a path apart from publicity, rarely appearing in exhibitions or interviews, while their work has continued to be held in high regard and sought after in many places. When we visited the kiln, what stayed with us was the sincerity with which they continue their work, in a way that feels almost untouched by time. There was little sign of the digital world there — not even a PC or printer — only the sound of a radio playing in the background. We are deeply moved by this kind of devotion — a kiln that has never sought attention or shortcuts, but has simply continued refining its craft with patience and care. It is a way of working we admire deeply, and we feel honoured to bring their craft to you.
All Shozan Kiln products are wholly handmade. There is no identical piece offering. Irregularities in size, glaze, colour and texture may occur and reflect the artisan nature of the product and should be embraced.
◾ Hand-Made In Japan
◾ NOT Suitable for Microwave OR Dishwasher
◾ One espresso cup in a cardboard box.
◾ Material: Pottery
◾ Size: Approximately 6cm diameter x 7 cm height
◾Capacity: 75ml (Comfortable), 105ml (Full)