In the world of Japanese ceramics, there is one decorative technique that is regarded as the most beautiful and delicate. This technique is called “Mishima” ( Misshima). It is a form of painting on the surface of the earth and still maintains the concept of Japanese art, which is beautiful, simple and perfectly natural.
The name “Mishima” comes from Mishima City in Shizuoka Prefecture, Japan, which was an ancient production area for pottery using this technique. However, it is speculated that the technique actually has even older origins. It is said to have been influenced by Korean porcelain from the Goryeo period , particularly the Korean inlay technique called Sanggam . It was introduced to Japan in the 15th century.
So what is the Mishima technique?
The heart of Mishima is the process of embedding patterns into the clay, creating a pattern that seems to penetrate the surface, rather than drawing or painting on the surface. The steps are as follows:
- The raw material is formed ( Leather-hard stage) by using a semi-dry, semi-wet clay suitable for carving.
- Engrave patterns using a needle or carving tool according to the desired design.
- Add colored clay ( Slip) Gradually use different colored clay to fill in the carved grooves.
- After the slip dries, the surface is scraped or polished to a smooth finish, revealing the embedded lines.
- Glazed and burned Then it is glazed and fired at a temperature according to the type of clay and glaze.
The result is a textured surface with a soft, delicate pattern that looks natural as if the pattern has seeped under the surface of the soil.
By now, you might be able to see the charm of Mishima , right? But more than its beautiful and unique patterns, what makes Mishima so popular isn't just the beauty of its lines, but the calmness and concentration behind its creation. Because carving and adding patterns requires patience, meticulousness, and a deep awareness of the rhythm of the hand, it's a technique that many ceramic artists consider "a meditation through sculpting."
The patterns often used in Mishima are inspired by nature, such as flowers, leaves, water waves, or even simple geometric patterns, reflecting the aesthetic concept of “Wabi- Sabi” — the beauty of simplicity and charming imperfection.
Firing in the Mishima technique
It can be done at both low and high temperatures, depending on the type of clay and glaze used. There are generally two main stages: Bisque Firing ( raw firing) around 800–900°C to harden the piece and prepare it for glaze, and Glaze Firing ( glaze firing) around 1,200–1,300°C for stoneware or porcelain.
Choosing a clear or thin matte glaze will help to make the Mishima lines stand out and deepen.
Today, ceramic artists around the world have incorporated Mishima techniques into a wide variety of designs, from tableware to wall decorations to large-scale contemporary artworks. Whether using traditional Japanese patterns or creating new forms, the spirit of Mishima remains in every line. This is the intention of the creators, who painstakingly carve the clay with their artistic hearts.