Bluish opaque glazed cup with purplish splash, Jun ware, Jin dynasty, 12th-13th century. H. 3.6 cm Mouth Diam. 6.2 cm. © Copyright 2023 MAYUYAMA & CO., LTD

Provenance: Swedish Collection.
Old Japanese Collection.

Note: It is a small cup from the Tokugama kiln. The blue glaze, which is synonymous with tan kiln, is very glossy, and still conveys the same brilliance as in the past. The highlight of this work is how the pale magenta glaze, decorated with the tan blue color, melts into a delicate gradation. The shape of the vessel is also tight and good shape that does not escape the power, and the base is small and well-organized. Although it is a small item, it can be said that it is a product that has all the goodness of the kiln.

The Jun kiln is said to have developed under the influence of the Ru kiln, but many mysteries remain about its actual state. Works with purplish spots are particularly highly valued among the works of Kamakura, but it is said that there are many examples of purplish spots that are too obvious from the Gen era or later, judging from the shape of the vessel. The color sensibility that is common to these works seems to be in line with the tastes of the Yuan Dynasty, who tended to seek plainness and multicolor. In addition, the tan blue glaze, which is characteristic of Jun kilns, has changed over time from the light, moist, and few air bubbles of the Ru kiln style to a glaze with large bubbles and a rough impression. However, in the Kiln kiln system, there are almost no patterns, and there are many universal wares such as bowls, bowls, and cups, so it seems that there are many examples where things from different times are regarded as the same kind.

This work has a very delicate taste among such works of purple red spots, and it is a work that makes you feel the style of the Song Dynasty. I would like you to take a look at it.