1. The Artist: Tanimoto Kei Born into a lineage of prestigious Iga potters (the son of the legendary Tanimoto Kosei), Kei Tanimoto is a pivotal figure in contemporary Japanese ceramics. His work is celebrated for its dynamic energy and its deep dialogue with the ancient traditions of Iga. His pieces are held in high regard for their "unforced beauty" and are frequently featured in elite exhibitions. 2. The Essence of Iga-yaki: "Fire and Earth" Iga ware is famous for its "Heisetsu" (scorch) and its rugged, stone-like texture. Unlike delicate porcelain, Iga-yaki is fired at extremely high temperatures for several days, leading to: Natural Ash Glaze (Bidoro): The subtle, glass-like greenish drips seen on the surface are not painted on; they are the result of wood ash melting onto the clay during the intense firing process. Koge (Scorching): The dark, earthy tones are a "gift of the fire," creating a unique landscape on every vessel. No two pieces are ever identical. 3. Design & Aesthetics: Wabi-Sabi in Form This vase features a classic, subtly asymmetrical silhouette that reflects the Buddhist concept of Wabi-Sabi—finding perfection in imperfection. The Surface: The coarse, iron-rich clay provides a tactile experience, reminiscent of the rugged mountains of the Iga region (Mie Prefecture). Function: In the Japanese tea ceremony, an Iga Hana-ire is considered the highest level of vessel for displaying seasonal wildflowers, as its earthy tones make the colors of the petals pop with life. Collector’s Specifications Artist: Tanimoto Kei (Signed on the base and the wooden box) Type: Iga-yaki (High-fired stoneware) Design: Natural Ash Glaze with scorch markings Included: Original signed Tomobako (Paulownia wood box) with traditional Ukon-nuno (yellow wrapping cloth) and ribbon. Condition: Excellent, showing the authentic texture of kiln-fired earth. Why This Piece Belongs in Your Collection "In the world of Japanese ceramics, Iga-yaki is often called 'the ceramic of the warrior.' It possesses a masculine strength and a raw, primordial beauty. A piece by Tanimoto Kei is not just a vase; it is a piece of the Japanese earth, transformed by fire into a timeless work of art." Shipping from Japan with Tracking Number & Insurance. I promise fast shipping via FedEx or DHL as soon as possible! Import duties, taxes and charges are not included in the item price or shipping charges. These charges are the buyer's responsibility. These charges are normally collected by the delivering freight (shipping) company or when you pick the item up - do not confuse them for additional shipping charges.