■ Please Note: I usually ship within 24 hours after payment. However, payments made on Friday, Saturday, or Sunday will be shipped on Monday since the post office is closed on weekends. Tracking updates on Catawiki may take some time to appear. Shipping costs include insurance but not customs duties. Import taxes or customs fees may apply depending on your country, and I cannot influence or adjust them. If you disagree with the customs charges, please contact your local customs office directly. As this item ships from Japan, delivery may take longer than usual. ■ Authenticity & Handcrafted Nature: This is an authentic handcrafted work by Kenji Kato of Shinsho Kiln. Each piece is individually wheel-thrown and kiln-fired, resulting in subtle variations in glaze tone, depth, and surface texture. The vibrant turquoise glaze is achieved through precise control of firing conditions, making each work unique. The inclusion of the original signed wooden box (tomobako), matching cloth, and artist biography document further confirms its authenticity and enhances its collector’s significance. ■ Estimated Period: Late 20th to early 21st century (1990–2015) — a period during which contemporary Japanese ceramic artists explored bold monochrome glazes such as turquoise, blending traditional craftsmanship with modern aesthetic sensibilities and international influences. ■ Description: This exceptional flower vase is defined by its striking “Turkish blue” glaze—an intense, luminous turquoise that envelops the rounded form with remarkable visual clarity. The softly swelling body is decorated with subtle, darker abstract motifs beneath the glaze, creating depth and movement while maintaining a refined simplicity. The narrow neck and small opening make it ideal for minimalist floral arrangements, emphasizing the sculptural presence of the vessel itself. What is Shinsho Kiln? Shinsho Kiln represents a contemporary Japanese ceramic studio tradition that emphasizes innovation in glaze development while maintaining strong ties to classical forming techniques. The kiln is particularly known for its pursuit of vivid color fields and controlled surface expression, often focusing on monochrome or near-monochrome finishes that highlight the purity of form. Who is Kenji Kato? Kenji Kato is a Japanese ceramic artist recognized for his mastery of color-focused glazing techniques. His work often centers on achieving depth and luminosity through carefully formulated glazes, especially in the turquoise spectrum. By combining traditional wheel-throwing skills with modern glaze experimentation, Kato has developed a distinctive style that appeals strongly to contemporary collectors. What is “Turkish Blue” (Turquoise Glaze)? “Turkish blue” refers to a vivid turquoise glaze inspired by Middle Eastern and Central Asian ceramic traditions. In Japanese ceramics, this color is achieved through copper-based glazes under specific firing conditions, resulting in a brilliant, almost gem-like surface. The challenge lies in controlling the kiln atmosphere to produce a consistent yet lively tone. In this piece, the glaze exhibits remarkable saturation and evenness, with subtle tonal variations that enhance its depth and visual richness. Form and Function – Flower Vase (Hanaire): A hanaire is a vessel designed for the art of flower arrangement. This form, with its rounded body and restrained opening, is particularly suited for single-stem or minimalist compositions. The vase itself becomes a central visual element, harmonizing with seasonal flora while standing as an independent sculptural artwork. Tomobako and Accompanying Documents: The original signed wooden box, cloth, and artist biography document are integral to the cultural and collectible value of the piece. They not only protect the work but also serve as documentation of authorship and provenance, highly valued among serious collectors. ■ Expert’s Insight: This piece exemplifies the modern evolution of Japanese ceramic art, where color itself becomes the primary expressive medium. The turquoise glaze is not merely decorative—it is the result of highly controlled chemical reactions within the kiln, requiring both technical precision and artistic intuition. Collectors are particularly drawn to such works for their ability to bridge traditional craftsmanship with a bold, contemporary aesthetic. The balance between the vessel’s pure form and its radiant surface makes it a standout piece for display in both traditional and modern interiors. ■ Antique/Vintage Notice: This item is a vintage handcrafted piece. Minor signs of age such as subtle surface wear, glaze irregularities, or natural firing marks are to be expected and are considered part of its authenticity and charm. These characteristics enhance its historical and artistic value and should not be regarded as defects. ■Shipping & Handling: We ship worldwide from Japan using insured and trackable services. All items are professionally packed to ensure safe delivery. Import duties or customs fees are the buyer’s responsibility. Delivery may take time depending on your location. Feel free to reach out with any questions.