A Ko-shodai (old Shodai ware) jar fired in the mid to late Edo period. Shodai ware traces its origins to the early Edo period, when the feudal lords Hosokawa Tadatoshi invited potters Hinnokōji Genshichi and Katsuragi Hachizaemon from Agano to establish kilns in Higo.

This jar rises in a graceful, elongated form, its rounded body surmounted by a neck that firmly stands upright. The surface is boldly covered in a variegated straw ash galze known as “Namako-yu”, where patches of exposed clay accentuate the rich, iron-bearing body beneath. The interplay of vigorous glaze flows and earthy texture epitomises the dynamic character of Old Shodai ceramics.

What appears to be a flake at the rim is, in fact, a kiln flaw that was glazed over during the firing process. Apart from this, the piece is in excellent condition.