Item Description: This is an exceptional Bizen ware single-flower vase created by Yamamoto Izuru (山本出 Yamamoto Izuru, born 1944), a distinguished Japanese ceramic artist. The piece showcases the distinctive "Bizen-tsuchi Shussai" (備前土出彩) technique, which refers to the natural color variations and surface effects unique to Bizen pottery. The vase exhibits the characteristic unglazed surface of authentic Bizen ware, with natural fire markings and color variations that occurred during the wood-firing process. The form is elegantly simple yet refined, featuring a slender neck that gradually widens toward the base, making it ideal for displaying a single flower stem in the traditional ikebana style. The piece demonstrates the natural beauty of Bizen clay, with subtle earth tones ranging from warm browns to reddish hues. These colors are created naturally during the firing process without any applied glazes, showcasing the pure essence of the clay and the skill of the potter. This vase comes with its original signed wooden box (tomobako), which authenticates the work and adds significant value to the piece. The box bears the artist's signature and seal, confirming its authenticity. Yamamoto Izuru works within the prestigious lineage of Bizen pottery, and his works are collected alongside pieces by masters such as Kaneshige Toyo, Fujiwara Ken, Fujiwara Yu, and Yamamoto Toshu. This vase represents an excellent example of contemporary Bizen ware and would be a distinguished addition to any collection of Japanese ceramics. Size Height: 21.3 cm Width: 13 cm Depth: 13 cm Condition Good condition overall with signs of age and use appropriate to a vintage ceramic piece. Minor wear consistent with its age, but no chips, cracks, or significant damage noted. Artist Profile Yamamoto Izuru (山本出 Yamamoto Izuru, born 1944) is a highly respected Bizen ware potter who carries forward the centuries-old tradition of Bizen pottery, one of the Six Ancient Kilns. Born in Bizen City, Okayama Prefecture, he is the fourth son of Yamamoto Toshu, a Living National Treasure. After studying sculpture at Musashino Art University and studying abroad at École Nationale Supérieure des Beaux-Arts, Yamamoto returned and apprenticed under his father. He established his own kiln in 1975. Yamamoto has developed unique techniques including "Shussai" (creating colorful expressions with colored clay) and "Tsumiage" (layering thin clay plates). His works have received numerous prestigious awards including the Kaneshige Toyo Prize, Okayama Prefecture Cultural Encouragement Award, and Traditional Art Crafts Exhibition Award. In 2012, he was designated as a holder of Important Intangible Cultural Property by Okayama Prefecture. Yamamoto continues to actively create works that honor traditional Bizen techniques while bringing fresh contemporary perspectives to this ancient art form. 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.