Soojushisabi

Soojushisabi is a term that refers to a specific style of Japanese ceramics known for its distinctive glaze. The name translates roughly to "cold, dripping, rusty." This glaze is characterized by its uneven application, often creating a layered effect where colors appear to melt and drip down the sides of the vessel. Common colors include earthy browns, deep greens, and muted blues, with subtle variations in tone due to the firing process.

The aesthetic of Soojushisabi is deeply rooted in the Japanese appreciation for wabi-sabi, a philosophy that embraces imperfection, transience, and the beauty of the natural world. The irregular patterns and textures of the Soojushisabi glaze evoke the feeling of age and the marks left by time and nature, such as moss growing on stone or rust forming on metal. This often results in pieces that feel organic and understated.

Soojushisabi is typically applied to stoneware or porcelain, and the techniques used aim to highlight the inherent qualities of the clay body. The unevenness of the glaze application is intentional, contributing to the unique character of each piece. While often associated with traditional tea ceremony ware, Soojushisabi glazes are also found on a variety of functional and decorative ceramics, appreciated for their subtle beauty and contemplative qualities. The exact origins of the term and specific techniques can vary among different potters and kilns.