Item Description: This is an impressive rectangular slab plate (Itazara) created by the accomplished contemporary ceramic artist Saeki Moriyoshi 佐伯守美 (b. 1949). With a width of 41 cm, this substantial piece exemplifies Saeki's mastery of練込 (nerikomi/marbled clay) technique, showcasing beautiful natural flowing patterns created by layering different colored clays. The plate displays stunning linear striations in warm earth tones ranging from cream to deep brown, creating a wood-grain-like effect that demonstrates Saeki's exceptional control over the nerikomi technique. The organic flowing patterns across the surface reveal the natural beauty of layered clays, making each piece truly unique. The rectangular slab form with slightly raised edges provides both functionality and aesthetic appeal. This piece comes with its original signed wooden box (tomobako) and protective cloth (tomobukuro), inscribed with "板皿" (Itazara - slab plate), providing essential authentication and provenance documentation. These accessories confirm this as an authentic work from Saeki's studio. Saeki Moriyoshi is a distinguished member of the Japan Kogei Association and has received numerous prestigious awards throughout his career, including recognition from the Imperial Household Agency, which acquired one of his works in 2002. His nerikomi works are celebrated for their technical excellence and natural artistic beauty. Size Height: 3 cm Width: 41 cm Depth: 27.4 cm Condition Excellent condition with no visible damage, chips, or cracks. Artist Profile Saeki Moriyoshi 佐伯守美 (b. 1949) is a distinguished contemporary Japanese ceramic artist born in Utsunomiya, Tochigi Prefecture, as the son of sculptor Saeki Rusuo. After studying at Musashino Art University, he graduated from Tokyo University of the Arts in 1975, where his graduation work won the Salon de Printemps Prize. Saeki completed his master's degree at Tokyo University of the Arts in 1977 and established his independent kiln in Tochigi Prefecture in 1981. He became a full member of the Japan Kogei Association in 1980 and has since served as a judge for numerous prestigious exhibitions including the Traditional Kogei New Works Exhibition. Throughout his career, Saeki has received numerous awards including the Tochigi Prefecture Culture Encouragement Award (1989), the Maronie Culture Award (1990), and special recognition at the Mashiko Ceramic Art Exhibition (2002). Notably, one of his works was acquired by the Imperial Household Agency in 2002, a significant honor in Japanese ceramics. Saeki specializes in象嵌 (zogan/inlay) and 練込 (nerikomi/marbled clay) techniques, creating works that demonstrate exceptional technical skill combined with contemporary aesthetic sensibility. He has also served as a lecturer at Tokyo University of the Arts and Bunsei University of Art. NOITICE: The lot will be carefully packaged and sent by Japan Post, DHL or FedEx depend on the situation. It takes about 3 weeks to receive normally. Import duties, taxes, and charges are not included in the item price or shipping cost. These charges are the buyer's responsibility. Sometimes Customes or delivery company in your country contact you for Customs clearance via phone or email. Please make sure that you could answer the phone. If you don't, the parcel will return to me and it cost more double shipping fee for reshipping. I appreciate your cooperation.