This Shigaraki ware flower vase by Shigemasa Higashida presents a tall, rectangular form with a distinctly architectural structure. The front face is punctuated by two circular openings that reveal the hollow interior, while a small spout-like projection emerges at the upper rim. Across the surface, incised linear and circular markings form abstract patterns that extend over the clay body. The piece is left unglazed, allowing the texture of the Shigaraki clay to remain exposed. Variations in firing have produced shifts in tone from warm beige to reddish-brown across the surface. A metal ring is attached to one side, enabling the vessel to be suspended as a hanging flower container (kake-hanaire). The base is flat and unglazed, bearing the artist’s incised signature. The vase is accompanied by its original wooden box (tomobako), inscribed and sealed by the artist, together with a biographical booklet (shiori). About Shigaraki Ware: Shigaraki ware is one of the Six Ancient Kilns of Japan, with a history dating back to the late 12th century. It is produced in Shigaraki, Shiga Prefecture, and is known for its strong connection to natural materials and traditional wood-firing techniques. The defining feature of Shigaraki ware is its coarse, iron-rich clay. During firing, this clay reacts with ash and flame to create natural effects such as ash glaze, scorched marks, and warm reddish tones. These surface variations occur naturally in the kiln, making each piece unique. Many Shigaraki works are unglazed or minimally glazed, allowing the texture of the clay and the traces of the firing process to remain visible. Rather than refined decoration, the beauty of Shigaraki ware lies in its raw surface, simple forms, and the balance between intention and chance. Today, Shigaraki ware includes both traditional functional pieces—such as tea wares, vases, and jars—and contemporary sculptural works. Modern Shigaraki artists are increasingly appreciated by international collectors for their bold forms and material-driven expression. Artist Profile: Born in Hiroshima Prefecture, Shigemasa Higashida graduated from Shimonoseki City University in 1978 before turning to ceramics, studying at Tajimi Technical High School in Gifu Prefecture. In 1986, he established Soshin-gama (素心窯) in Koganei, Tokyo. He works across a range of ceramic traditions, including Shino, Oribe, and Shigaraki, often approaching them through sculptural forms. His works have been selected for exhibitions such as the Asahi Ceramic Exhibition and are held in collections including the Art Institute of Chicago, the Victoria and Albert Museum, the Ashmolean Museum, and the Hamilton Art Gallery. Shipping / Policy: Carefully packaged and shipped from Japan by Japan Post or DHL with tracking. If you purchase multiple items, combined shipping is available. Please contact us if needed. Import duties, VAT (or equivalent consumption tax), and any other fees are the responsibility of the buyer. Please inspect the item upon arrival and contact us via Catawiki immediately if there is any issue. About the vintage ceramics we offer (please read before purchasing): We mainly offer 20th-century vintage Japanese ceramics. Due to their age and hand-crafted nature, each piece may show natural characteristics and variations such as glaze crackle (crazing), glaze irregularities, kiln marks, surface wear, and age-related patina. For this reason, we recommend these items primarily for display and collection. If you choose to use the item, please avoid sudden temperature changes and prolonged soaking, and do not use a dishwasher or microwave. Optional sealing/seasoning may be considered depending on your intended use. Guarantee: Our shop is a licensed antiques dealer in Japan. We guarantee the authenticity of this work.