Item Description: 木村一郎 Kimura Ichiro（1915-1978） A stoneware neriage (marbled clay) flat vase (henko) accompanied by a signed wooden storage box (hakogaki). The vessel is crafted using the demanding neriage technique, in which differently coloured clays are layered, twisted, and sliced to reveal fluid, rhythmic patterns throughout the body. The wide, compressed form — a classic henko ("flat jug") silhouette — amplifies the visual impact of the marbled surface, creating a dynamic interplay of earthy tones. The foot is neatly trimmed and the overall throwing is masterful, reflecting the artist's deep technical command acquired through years of training under Kawai Kanjiro in Kyoto. A rare and important example of Mashiko ceramic art that transcends the folk-craft tradition and reaches the level of museum-quality studio pottery. Size Height: 26 cm Width: 13.5 cm Depth: 10 cm Weight: 1,720 g Condition The piece is in excellent condition with no notable scratches, chips, or soiling; both the work and the signed wooden storage box (hakogaki) are well preserved. Artist Profile 木村一郎 Kimura Ichiro (1915–1978) was a ceramist born in Mashiko, Tochigi Prefecture, widely regarded as one of the most innovative and technically accomplished potters to emerge from that celebrated folk-craft town. He trained first at the Commercial and Industrial Ministry Ceramics Research Institute in Kyoto, where he encountered Hamada Shoji and subsequently worked alongside Kawai Kanjiro, absorbing a remarkably wide range of techniques including neriage (marbled clay), shinshayu (copper-red glaze), zogan (inlay), slip-trailing, and white and yellow glazes. Returning to Mashiko after military service, he built his own climbing kiln in 1946 and embarked on an independent career that blended the folk-craft spirit of the mingei movement with a boldly modern aesthetic sensibility. His work was honoured at major national exhibitions, acquired by the Imperial Household, and shown internationally, including at the Musée de Marseille. In 1965 he resigned from the Japan Kogei Association to pursue his own artistic vision without institutional constraint. He is celebrated as a singular, free-spirited talent whose output went far beyond what the label "Mashiko folk potter" could contain. 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.