Item Description: A magnificent contemporary ceramic vase by Japanese ceramic artist Uto Shuichiro (宇土秀一郎, 1970–), created with the theme of the Earth embraced within the Universe. The form is dynamic and symbolic: a spherical outer shell, boldly cut open in a sweeping crescent, encloses a smaller rounded vase inside. This dual-layered structure represents the cosmic relationship between the universe and the Earth. The outer surface is finished in Galaxy Blue (銀河藍) glaze with shimmering silver-gray highlights, evoking the infinite depth of the cosmos. The inner vessel is glazed in Deep Sea Blue (深海藍), its speckled finish recalling the mysteries of the ocean floor. Together, they create a poetic dialogue of sea and sky, matter and spirit. Every viewpoint reveals a new impression: from the side, the arc suggests a crescent moon or planetary orbit; from above, the inner vessel appears as a glowing sphere suspended within a cosmic cradle. The reflective glazes capture light like celestial phenomena, imbuing the piece with a meditative presence. Signed to the underside. Both functional as a flower vase and compelling as a sculptural object, this work exemplifies Uto Shuichiro’s mastery of ceramic craft combined with a deeply contemporary artistic philosophy. Size & Weight : Height: 21.5 cm Width: 19 cm Length: 18.5 cm Weight: 1864 g Artist Profile : Uto Shuichiro (宇土秀一郎, 1970–) Born in Kumamoto in 1970. After graduating from Kyushu Sangyo University in 1993, he spent time in Sydney, Australia, before returning to Japan to pursue ceramics in 2000. In 2009 he moved to Yomitan, Okinawa, where he studied Okinawan pottery traditions. In 2010 he established his own kiln, Tobo Shusei (陶房秀星). After his workshop was damaged in the 2016 Kumamoto earthquake, he rebuilt and resumed his practice, continuing to exhibit widely. He has held numerous solo and group exhibitions in Okinawa, Tokyo, and Kumamoto, including at Gallery Ginza, Ryubo Art Gallery (Okinawa), and the Kumamoto Traditional Crafts Center. His works have been selected for major competitions such as the Seibu Traditional Crafts Exhibition, Arita International Ceramics Exhibition, and the Kurashi no Kogei Exhibition. In 2024, he was awarded the Ogawa Jury’s Encouragement Prize at the 42nd Kurashi no Kogei Exhibition. In 2021, Uto also carried the torch as part of the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games relay in Mashiki, Kumamoto. Known for themes inspired by the cosmos and nature, he fuses traditional Japanese ceramic techniques with contemporary vision. 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.