Freshwater jar (mizusashi)

The unique shape and fortuitous run of the
glaze were often accidental. Once the ware's
beauty received the stamp of approval from
tastemakers in the tea circle, however, such
"damage" was, to a certain degree, artificially
induced and the effect premeditated.
So says Miyeko Murase, a noted specialist in Japanese
art, about a similar jar. This jar too seems relaxed. Its
profiles are not quite symmetrical, its mouth not level,
its sides slumped, its glaze dripping nonchalantly. The
jar contrasts with its flawless, glossy lid.
As hard as it tries for naturalness, though, it clearly was
shaped for the unshapeliness many tea masters sought.
The line of brown glaze dividing the upper part can't
be entirely accidental, and neither can the fact that the
jar has a distinct front and back. It's a study in planned
spontaneity, and calls attention to its process as much
as to its result.