– Takahashi Samon: respected contemporary ceramic artist working in the kohiki tradition – Kohiki youhen glaze: subtle ash-white surface with spontaneous kiln-fired colour variations – Elegant cylindrical form: 24.5 cm height, ideal for single-stem ikebana or contemporary arrangements Summary: This cylindrical flower vase is the work of Takahashi Samon, a contemporary Japanese potter who continues the centuries-old kohiki tradition. Kohiki, originally developed in Korean Yi dynasty ceramics and adopted by Japanese tea masters, is characterised by a soft white slip applied over stoneware clay, creating a velvety, chalk-like surface. The term "youhen" refers to spontaneous kiln effects—unpredictable colour shifts and mineral blooms that occur during high-temperature firing. This piece displays the hallmarks of fine kohiki: a warm, tactile surface that absorbs and reflects light in subtle ways, making it a contemplative object as much as a functional vessel. In excellent unused condition, this vase represents a contemporary dialogue with historical ceramic aesthetics. There is a quiet discipline in making a kohiki piece well. The potter applies a white slip to grey stoneware, then fires at high temperature in a reduction atmosphere. What emerges is rarely predictable. Some areas may blush with pink or ochre; others remain pale as old paper. This vase embodies that restrained beauty. Takahashi Samon works within Japan's studio pottery tradition, where individual makers pursue mastery of specific techniques and forms over many years. Kohiki ware first travelled to Japan from Korea in the sixteenth century, where it was embraced by tea practitioners for its unassuming elegance. The slip-coated surface ages gracefully with use, absorbing traces of tea or flower water, developing what the Japanese call "nurturing the clay." Though originally intended for tea bowls, kohiki's gentle character translates beautifully to flower vessels. The cylindrical form is approximately 24.5 cm tall, with clean vertical lines that allow the glaze itself to become the focal point. The youhen variations—subtle shifts in tone from cream to blush—move across the surface like weather patterns. In a contemporary interior, this vase works equally well on a minimal console or a traditional tokonoma alcove. The muted tones pair effortlessly with Scandinavian design, concrete textures, or raw wood surfaces. For flower arranging, the narrow opening encourages restrained, vertical compositions—a single willow branch, three stems of eucalyptus, or a spare orchid. Condition is excellent. The vase is unused, showing no signs of wear, chips, or cracks. The kohaki slip displays the natural variations inherent to the technique, with no damage to detract from its contemplative presence. Kohiki ware remains highly regarded among collectors of Japanese ceramics, particularly those who appreciate wabi-sabi aesthetics—the beauty found in simplicity and imperfection. Contemporary studio potters like Takahashi Samon carry forward these aesthetic principles whilst producing work for modern use. If you find yourself drawn to the unforced elegance of Japanese studio pottery, this kohiki vase offers a daily reminder that restraint, too, can be powerful. Shipping & Handling We ship worldwide via DHL or EMS with full insurance and tracking. Professional packing ensures safe arrival; combined shipping available for multiple wins. Local customs duties are the buyer's responsibility. Seller Guarantee We specialise in authentic Japanese ceramics and guarantee this piece's authenticity. Questions welcome – we reply within 24 hours. 1184