Unattributed Studio Stoneware Bowl, Ash Glaze, 13″

This is a large, hand-thrown studio stoneware bowl of notable presence and quality, likely produced in the late 20th century and strongly influenced by Japanese ash-glaze traditions. The bowl features a wide, flared rim and a shallow, grounded profile, giving it both visual authority and functional balance. The interior is finished in a pale, milky ash-style glaze with visible throwing rings, natural speckling, and subtle pooling that creates depth and movement across the surface. The exterior transitions into warm iron-brown tones, revealing kiln variation and reduction effects consistent with high-temperature firing. The unglazed foot exposes the clay body and firing marks. A small impressed spiral near the base appears to be a studio or trimming mark rather than a commercial stamp, reinforcing that this is a handmade, non-factory piece. Pencil markings on the underside are consistent with studio inventory or pricing notes and are not a maker’s signature. The bowl is unattributed, which is common for studio ceramics of this period. The quality of form, glaze behavior, and firing strongly suggest work by an experienced Western studio potter, most likely American, working within a Japanese-influenced aesthetic rather than imported production. Condition: Very good vintage condition. No cracks, repairs, or structural issues. Minor glaze variations, firing marks, and surface irregularities are inherent to the handmade process and are considered part of the piece’s character. Dimensions: • Mouth diameter: 13 inches • Depth: 4 inches • Base diameter: 5 inches Collector Notes: Large, restrained studio bowls with strong profiles and natural ash glazes are increasingly sought after by collectors of postwar and contemporary ceramics. This piece works equally well as a display object, centerpiece, or functional serving bowl and fits comfortably within collections focused on studio pottery, wabi-sabi aesthetics, or Japanese-influenced Western ceramics.