Koji Arata (1938–2022) – Black Glazed Ichirin-zashi Vase – Kasama Ware, Japan - Porcelain - Koji Arata - Japan - Shōwa period (1926-1989)
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Koji Arata (1938–2022) – Black Glazed Ichirin-zashi Vase, Kasama Ware, Japan; glazed ceramic in a teardrop form, 21 cm high and 15 cm wide, from the Shōwa period, authentic, in generally good vintage condition.
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Description from the seller
Koji Arata (1938–2022) — Black Glazed Single-Flower Vase, Kasama Ware
– Japanese studio pottery by ceramic artist Koji Arata
– Elegant teardrop form with deep black glaze and textured upper surface
– Distinctive example of modern Kasama ceramics
Summary: An elegant Japanese studio pottery vase attributed to Koji Arata, a significant figure associated with the development of modern Kasama ceramics. The work combines a beautifully restrained teardrop silhouette with an expressive black glaze enriched by delicate variations in colour and texture.
The body expands into a softly rounded lower section before narrowing gradually towards a slender neck and small circular opening. Its proportions create an exceptionally calm profile, with the sense of volume concentrated in the lower part of the vessel.
The glaze is particularly appealing. Deep, almost mirror-like black surfaces cover much of the lower body, while the upper section features a more varied texture with subtle brown and bronze-coloured effects.
The boundary between these surfaces is irregular and organic, introducing visual movement into the otherwise controlled silhouette. Under changing light, the glaze reveals different tonal qualities, making the vase attractive from several viewing angles.
Koji Arata was born in 1938 and died in 2022. He was an important ceramic artist working within the Kasama tradition and was among the potters featured in a 1994 NHK documentary exploring contemporary ceramic expression in the region.
Kasama, located in Ibaraki Prefecture, developed into one of Japan's important centres of individual studio pottery. Unlike ceramic traditions strongly associated with a single decorative style, modern Kasama pottery became known for encouraging artistic independence and experimentation.
This vase reflects that atmosphere of creative freedom. Its sculptural silhouette and carefully developed glaze require little additional ornament, allowing the inherent qualities of ceramic form and surface to become the principal focus.
The narrow opening makes the vessel particularly suitable for a single flower or a minimal arrangement, while its refined outline also allows it to function independently as a sculptural object.
Artist: Koji Arata (1938–2022)
Origin: Kasama, Ibaraki Prefecture, Japan
Material: Glazed ceramic
Technique: Black glaze with contrasting textural effects
Condition: Generally good vintage condition. No cracks or major damage were reported by the seller. Minor surface and storage traces may be present.
An elegant example of modern Japanese studio pottery, combining the strong sculptural identity of Kasama ceramics with the subtle visual complexity of black glaze.
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 art and collectibles and guarantee this piece’s authenticity. Questions welcome – we reply within 24 hours.
1795
Seller's Story
Hello, and thank you for visiting my page. I primarily handle Japanese antiques, as well as Western antiques, art pieces, and pre-loved items that have been cherished in Japan. Growing up in a family of historians—my grandfather was a historian and my father was an archaeologist—I have always been captivated by the eras and stories these historic objects and works of art carry with them.
My listings feature collections from both Japan and the West, pieces that have stood the test of time and remained beloved through the ages. Through these rare treasures, I hope to share with you the delight of ownership and discovery. As a professional, I strive for honest and sincere transactions to ensure customer satisfaction, always leveraging my experience and eye for quality.
I strongly believe in not letting buyers down, so I describe items as accurately and thoroughly as possible, prioritizing secure and careful packaging. If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to reach out. It would be my pleasure to help enrich your collecting experience.
Thank you for your interest, and I look forward to doing business with you.
Koji Arata (1938–2022) — Black Glazed Single-Flower Vase, Kasama Ware
– Japanese studio pottery by ceramic artist Koji Arata
– Elegant teardrop form with deep black glaze and textured upper surface
– Distinctive example of modern Kasama ceramics
Summary: An elegant Japanese studio pottery vase attributed to Koji Arata, a significant figure associated with the development of modern Kasama ceramics. The work combines a beautifully restrained teardrop silhouette with an expressive black glaze enriched by delicate variations in colour and texture.
The body expands into a softly rounded lower section before narrowing gradually towards a slender neck and small circular opening. Its proportions create an exceptionally calm profile, with the sense of volume concentrated in the lower part of the vessel.
The glaze is particularly appealing. Deep, almost mirror-like black surfaces cover much of the lower body, while the upper section features a more varied texture with subtle brown and bronze-coloured effects.
The boundary between these surfaces is irregular and organic, introducing visual movement into the otherwise controlled silhouette. Under changing light, the glaze reveals different tonal qualities, making the vase attractive from several viewing angles.
Koji Arata was born in 1938 and died in 2022. He was an important ceramic artist working within the Kasama tradition and was among the potters featured in a 1994 NHK documentary exploring contemporary ceramic expression in the region.
Kasama, located in Ibaraki Prefecture, developed into one of Japan's important centres of individual studio pottery. Unlike ceramic traditions strongly associated with a single decorative style, modern Kasama pottery became known for encouraging artistic independence and experimentation.
This vase reflects that atmosphere of creative freedom. Its sculptural silhouette and carefully developed glaze require little additional ornament, allowing the inherent qualities of ceramic form and surface to become the principal focus.
The narrow opening makes the vessel particularly suitable for a single flower or a minimal arrangement, while its refined outline also allows it to function independently as a sculptural object.
Artist: Koji Arata (1938–2022)
Origin: Kasama, Ibaraki Prefecture, Japan
Material: Glazed ceramic
Technique: Black glaze with contrasting textural effects
Condition: Generally good vintage condition. No cracks or major damage were reported by the seller. Minor surface and storage traces may be present.
An elegant example of modern Japanese studio pottery, combining the strong sculptural identity of Kasama ceramics with the subtle visual complexity of black glaze.
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 art and collectibles and guarantee this piece’s authenticity. Questions welcome – we reply within 24 hours.
1795
Seller's Story
Hello, and thank you for visiting my page. I primarily handle Japanese antiques, as well as Western antiques, art pieces, and pre-loved items that have been cherished in Japan. Growing up in a family of historians—my grandfather was a historian and my father was an archaeologist—I have always been captivated by the eras and stories these historic objects and works of art carry with them.
My listings feature collections from both Japan and the West, pieces that have stood the test of time and remained beloved through the ages. Through these rare treasures, I hope to share with you the delight of ownership and discovery. As a professional, I strive for honest and sincere transactions to ensure customer satisfaction, always leveraging my experience and eye for quality.
I strongly believe in not letting buyers down, so I describe items as accurately and thoroughly as possible, prioritizing secure and careful packaging. If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to reach out. It would be my pleasure to help enrich your collecting experience.
Thank you for your interest, and I look forward to doing business with you.
Details
Dynastic Style/Period
Shōwa period (1926-1989)
Number of objects
1
Artist
Koji Arata
Country of Origin
Japan
Material
Porcelain
Height
21 cm
Width
15 cm
Title of artwork
Koji Arata (1938–2022) – Black Glazed Ichirin-zashi Vase – Kasama Ware, Japan
Condition
Good condition
Authenticity
Original/official
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