Item Description: This elegant flower vase exemplifies the finest qualities of Shigaraki-yaki, one of Japan's Six Ancient Kilns with over 800 years of ceramic tradition. Created by a contemporary Shigaraki artist, this piece showcases the distinctive characteristics that have made Shigaraki pottery treasured throughout Japanese history. The vase features a gracefully elongated cylindrical form with a gently flared mouth, ideal for ikebana (Japanese flower arranging). The natural, unglazed surface displays the spectacular effects of anagama (tunnel kiln) wood-firing, with dramatic color transitions from warm reddish-brown tones at the base to striking green natural ash glaze (bidoro) flowing down from the rim. This stunning natural glazing effect occurs when wood ash settles on the clay surface during the extended high-temperature firing process, melting to create glossy, glass-like areas unique to each piece. Shigaraki-yaki originated in the Kamakura period (13th century) in the mountainous Shigaraki region of Shiga Prefecture. The area's distinctive clay, formed from ancient lake deposits of Lake Biwa rich in feldspar and silica, provides exceptional properties for ceramic production. When fired in traditional wood-burning kilns, this iron-rich clay develops the characteristic reddish "fire color" (hi-iro) that has become synonymous with Shigaraki ware. During the late medieval period, Shigaraki pottery gained recognition among tea masters who appreciated its rustic, natural beauty, which perfectly complemented the aesthetic principles of tea ceremony. The warm, unpretentious character of Shigaraki ware aligned with wabi-sabi aesthetics, where beauty is found in simplicity, imperfection, and natural materials. This appreciation elevated Shigaraki from utilitarian production to recognized art form. The production of this piece follows traditional methods passed down through generations. The artist hand-shaped the vase from distinctive local Shigaraki clay, then fired it in an anagama (tunnel kiln) at temperatures exceeding 1200 degrees Celsius. During this multi-day firing process, the interaction between clay, wood ash, and intense flame created the natural surface effects visible on this piece. The beautiful flow of green bidoro glaze down one side of the vase, contrasting with the warm earth tones of the exposed clay, demonstrates the unpredictable beauty that emerges from traditional wood-firing techniques. This flower vase bears a potter's mark on the base, indicating it was created by a skilled Shigaraki artisan working in the traditional style. The piece shows minor signs of age and use consistent with authentic wood-fired pottery, adding to its character and authenticity. The natural variations in color and texture, the result of flame and ash during firing, ensure that this is a truly one-of-a-kind work. Shigaraki-yaki received official designation as a Traditional Craft Product in 1976, recognizing both its historical significance and the continuation of authentic handcraft techniques. In 2017, Shigaraki was recognized as one of Japan's Six Ancient Kilns and designated as a Japan Heritage site, acknowledging its exceptional cultural and historical value in Japanese ceramic history. This flower vase represents an excellent acquisition for collectors of Japanese ceramics, practitioners of ikebana, or those seeking authentic traditional crafts with deep cultural roots. The piece exemplifies the living tradition of Shigaraki pottery, where ancient techniques continue to produce works of natural beauty and artistic merit. Size Height: 25 cm Width: 8.5 cm Depth: 8.5 cm Weight: 1,084 g / 1.08 kg Condition Good condition with minor signs of age and use. Surface shows natural characteristics consistent with traditional anagama wood-firing, including ash deposits and flame effects. NOTICE: 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.