Vase - Keramik - Japan - Kutani-Keramik Pfauen-Glasur (Ohne mindestpreis)

Maker / Brand: Saragama (Sharagama)
Title of Work: Vase by Saragama, Saradoki, Yuukan, Silla Earthenware Style, Sueki, Ancient Earthenware, Antiques (with wooden box)

This exquisite ceramic vase by Saragama (Sharagama) is a captivating piece that draws inspiration from the enduring aesthetics of ancient Japanese Sueki (Suye ware) and Korean Silla earthenware. Crafted using the unglazed yakishime technique, it features distinctive movable rings known as yuukan, adding a dynamic and historically resonant element to its robust form. Presented with its original wooden storage box (tomobako), this vessel embodies a profound connection to East Asian ceramic traditions while serving as a compelling object d'art.

Artistic Background, Yakishime (Unglazed Stoneware)

Yakishime refers to a traditional Japanese firing technique where pottery is fired at high temperatures without the application of a glaze, allowing the natural color and texture of the clay to become the primary aesthetic. This method, often associated with ancient Sueki (Suye ware) from the Kofun and Asuka periods (3rd-8th centuries), emphasizes the inherent beauty of the earth and the transformative power of fire. Sueki itself was heavily influenced by Korean Silla ware, which introduced advanced kiln technologies and forms to Japan, fostering a shared heritage of unglazed, high-fired stoneware characterized by its austere beauty and tactile surfaces.

Design and Technique, Yuukan (Movable Rings) and Ancient Earthenware Style

This Saragama piece masterfully incorporates the ancient earthenware style, particularly evident in its unglazed, speckled clay body and robust construction. The most striking decorative feature is the set of four yuukan, or movable rings, attached to the vessel's sides. These substantial, rope-like rings, crafted from the same clay and integrated into the firing process, hang freely from fixed loops, creating a subtle kinetic element. The body is further adorned with incised, undulating wave-like patterns, reminiscent of ancient motifs. The natural firing variations of the yakishime technique result in an earthy grey surface with subtle mottling and visible kiln effects, enhancing its antique character.

Form and Aesthetic Qualities

Silhouette: The vase presents a sturdy, goblet-like form, featuring a wide, slightly everted mouth, a bulbous body, and a distinct, open pedestal base. Its compact yet substantial presence evokes the gravitas of ancient ritual vessels.
Surface Treatment: The unglazed surface exhibits a rich, earthy grey stoneware, speckled with darker mineral inclusions, offering a tactile and naturalistic finish. The incised wave patterns provide textural interest, while the natural variations from the yakishime firing contribute to its unique, rustic charm.
Functional and Artistic Purpose: Designed as a versatile flower vessel (kaki or ichirinzashi), it is perfectly suited for ikebana, tea ceremony flowers (chabana), wild grasses, or dried arrangements. Beyond its functional utility, its sculptural form and historical resonance make it a compelling standalone art object for contemplation.

Decorative and Collectible Appeal

Tradition Meets Modern Appeal: This piece skillfully bridges the gap between ancient East Asian ceramic traditions and contemporary design, offering a timeless aesthetic that appeals to both traditionalists and those with a modern sensibility for artisanal craft.
Display Versatility: Its robust form and earthy tones allow it to seamlessly integrate into a variety of interior settings, from traditional Japanese or minimalist modern spaces to rustic or antique-inspired decor, functioning equally well as a decorative accent or a focal point.
Cultural Significance: Reflecting the enduring influence of Sueki and Silla earthenware, this vase offers a tangible connection to the rich history of East Asian ceramics, making it a piece of cultural significance that speaks to centuries of craftsmanship.

This Saragama vase, with its profound historical echoes and distinctive craftsmanship, will particularly appeal to discerning collectors of Japanese folk art (mingei), antique ceramics, and those with an appreciation for the raw, unadorned beauty of unglazed stoneware.

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