Βάζο - Κεραμικό - Ιαπωνία - Βάζο Kutani Ware – Ζωντανό (χωρίς τιμή ασφαλείας)

Maker / Brand: Kutani Kosen Kiln (Kutani Kosen Gama), Third Generation Toshioka Kosen
Title of Work: Jar-Shaped Single Flower Vase by Toshioka Kosen, a Traditional Kutani Craft

This exquisite ceramic single flower vase, crafted by Toshioka Kosen, the third-generation artisan of the esteemed Kutani Kosen Kiln, exemplifies the refined artistry of traditional Japanese pottery. Fashioned as a classic jar-shaped vessel (tsubogata) and designed as an ichirinzashi (single flower vase), it features striking horizontal gold bands meticulously applied over a rich, dark red ground, showcasing a sophisticated aesthetic. Standing approximately 10.5 cm in height with a mouth diameter of about 2.9 cm, this piece is a testament to the enduring elegance of Kutani ware.

Artistic Background — Kutani Ware

Kutani ware, known in Japanese as Kutani-yaki, is a celebrated form of Japanese porcelain and pottery originating from the Kaga Province (present-day Ishikawa Prefecture) in the mid-17th century. Renowned for its bold and vibrant overglaze enamel decorations, often referred to as "gosai" (five colors: red, green, yellow, purple, dark blue), Kutani ware quickly gained prestige. While early Ko-Kutani (Old Kutani) pieces are characterized by their dynamic, painterly designs, the tradition evolved through various revivals and styles, consistently maintaining a reputation for luxurious decoration and technical mastery. It remains one of Japan's most recognizable and highly sought-after ceramic traditions, cherished for its artistic expression and historical depth.

Design and Technique — Gold Overglaze Decoration (Kin-de)

The primary decorative technique employed on this vase is a sophisticated form of gold overglaze (kin-de), where lustrous gold pigment is meticulously painted onto the already glazed and fired ceramic body. This application of gold in multiple, fine horizontal lines over a deep, russet-red background creates a captivating interplay of color and light, giving the surface a shimmering, almost iridescent quality. The form of the vase is a classic globular body that tapers gracefully into a slender neck, culminating in a subtly flared mouth, perfectly suited for holding a single flower. This tsubogata (jar-shaped) ichirinzashi emphasizes the Japanese aesthetic of appreciating minimalist beauty, allowing the single bloom to be the focal point while the vessel itself provides a rich, elegant foundation.

Form and Aesthetic Qualities

* **Silhouette and Form**: The vase presents an elegantly balanced globular body, smoothly transitioning into a slender, gracefully tapering neck. Its precise, narrow mouth (approximately 2.9 cm) designates it as an ideal ichirinzashi, designed to highlight the beauty of a single flower or branch, embodying a minimalist aesthetic.
* **Surface Treatment and Glaze**: The ceramic body is adorned with a deep, lustrous russet-red glaze that serves as a rich backdrop for the intricate gold decoration. Fine, shimmering horizontal bands of gold overglaze are applied with precision, creating a dynamic visual texture and a luxurious, light-reflective surface that shifts with ambient light.
* **Functional and Artistic Purpose**: Primarily intended as a single flower vase, this piece combines practical utility with profound artistic merit. It facilitates the traditional Japanese art of ikebana, even in its simplest form, while also serving as a compelling sculptural art object that enhances any display space with its sophisticated color palette and exquisite craftsmanship.

Decorative and Collectible Appeal

* **Tradition Meets Modern Appeal**: This vase beautifully merges the time-honored techniques of Kutani ware, particularly its celebrated overglaze decoration, with a contemporary, minimalist design. The repetitive gold banding offers a modern sensibility while rooted in classical Japanese craftsmanship, appealing to both traditionalists and those with modern interior tastes.
* **Display Versatility**: Its compact size (approx. 10.5 cm height) and striking visual presence make it a versatile decorative item. It can serve as a delicate accent in a minimalist setting, a focal point on a small shelf or desk, or a sophisticated addition to a larger collection of Japanese art, complementing various decor styles.
* **Cultural Significance**: As a product of the Kutani Kosen Kiln and crafted by a third-generation master, this piece represents a direct lineage of traditional Japanese ceramic art. The inclusion of an artist's profile (torekisho) further enhances its provenance and collectible value, making it a significant acquisition for those interested in authentic Japanese craftsmanship and cultural heritage.

This exquisite Kutani ware vase by Toshioka Kosen is an ideal acquisition for discerning collectors of Japanese ceramics, art enthusiasts, and interior designers seeking a piece that combines traditional craftsmanship with a refined, timeless aesthetic.

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