Shibui

2 July - 14 September 2018

An introduction to the concept of non-western beauty, very rooted in Japanese culture and with a notable presence in ceramic objects.


The word shibui – which means rough, unfinished, imperfect – is a key concept in Japanese aesthetics. This is a simple beauty, with a sober elegance that brings us closer to nature.

In Japanese ceramics, the concept of shibui is embodied in an exceptional way. Irregular materials, imperfect shapes, undefined colours and an unfinished look all make the object's intimate beauty shine out, expressing its true nature.

Some ceramic objects, created for the tea ceremony, are an example of how beauty can manifest in a simple way in humble, imperfect forms.

Related pieces

Water jar (Marugata kensui)

Water jar (Marugata kensui)

circa 1961 Would you like to see it?
Water jar (Fukagata kensui)

Water jar (Fukagata kensui)

ca. 1961 Would you like to see it?
Bowl (Chawan)

Bowl (Chawan)

circa 1961 Would you like to see it?
Bowl (Chawan)

Bowl (Chawan)

circa 1961 Would you like to see it?
Water jar (Iahasuguchi mizusashi)

Water jar (Iahasuguchi mizusashi)

circa 1961 Would you like to see it?
Bowl (Chawan)

Bowl (Chawan)

1860 Would you like to see it?

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