dating back to the 14th century, bizen ware is a type of japanese pottery traditionally from the bizen province. characterized by its significant hardness due to high temperature firing without glazing, favorable changes during this process often produce unexpected changes in color and different surface effects depending on the temperature of the kiln. also, different patterns can be achieved by  wrapping rice straws around a pot while the color and texture gradually change over time, giving these pieces special and unique characteristics.

shizuka tatsuno uses japanese pottery tradition in hiiro ceramic water carafes designboom
the hiiro collection is designed by shizuka tatsuno and produced by potter studio daikura
all images by fumio ando

 

 

designed by shizuka tatsuno and produced by pottery studio daikura, hiiro is a collection of modern, ceramic water carafes. boasting two colorways, the collection features a trimmed shape rarely seen in bizen ware. ‘the characteristic of bizen ware is that it is fired unglazed, without any painting,’ comments shizuka tatsuno. ‘I was impressed by its functionality: it can make water taste mild when stored in it for 24 hours. to the design, I added an organic feel to the product by adding small details like the scratched-like textures created by mixing gravel with the clay.’

shizuka tatsuno uses japanese pottery tradition in hiiro ceramic water carafes designboom
hiiro uses traditional japanese bizen ware clay with a contemporary design approach

 

 

there is an old japanese saying that goes: water does not spoil in bizen ware water jugs. and this probably comes from the fact that the clay has a high mineral content, which helps purify the water and enhances the taste while at it.

shizuka tatsuno uses japanese pottery tradition in hiiro ceramic water carafes designboom
the jugs feature a perfectly-fitting cup that can be used as a glass

shizuka tatsuno uses japanese pottery tradition in hiiro ceramic water carafes designboom
the slanted-line pattern is produced by wrapping rice straws around a pots

shizuka tatsuno uses japanese pottery tradition in hiiro ceramic water carafes
packing details

shizuka tatsuno uses japanese pottery tradition in hiiro ceramic water carafes
masters at work

shizuka tatsuno uses japanese pottery tradition in hiiro ceramic water carafes
a potter’s wheel is used to create the shapes

shizuka tatsuno uses japanese pottery tradition in hiiro ceramic water carafes
wood for the firing

 

 

project info:

 

name: hiiro, water ceramic carafes

design: shizuka tatsuno

client: daikura, japan
product launch: 2015
tasks: product design, package design, graphic design, planning & art direction
photographer: fumio ando