DESCRIPTION: This is a superb Shino ware vase (志野壷) by the esteemed ceramic artist Kato Kōzō (1935–2023), designated Living National Treasure for Setoguro ware. With its bulbous body and tapered neck, the form is both robust and elegant, embodying the balance of power and refinement that defines the finest examples of Mino tradition. The surface is covered in a thick, feldspathic Shino glaze of soft white tone, interspersed with natural crackling and areas of blush-red fire marks that emerge from the iron-rich clay during firing. These organic variations create a warm and tactile aesthetic, reflecting the unpredictability and beauty of kiln effects that are central to Shino’s appeal. The glaze has pooled and crawled in places, adding to the expressive surface and accentuating the vessel’s earthy vitality. This vase comes with its original signed wooden tomobako (共箱), inscribed with the work’s title and sealed by the artist, attesting to its authenticity. Compact in size, it is ideal for intimate flower arrangements or as a display object that encapsulates the quiet strength and poetic subtlety of Japanese tea aesthetics. Size : Width: approx. 9.5 × 9.5 cm Height: approx. 13.8 cm Artist Profile: Kato Kozo (1935–2023) was a celebrated Japanese ceramic artist from Mizunami, Gifu Prefecture. Initially working at the Gifu Prefectural Ceramic Research Institute, he was deeply influenced by the legendary Arakawa Toyozo. In 1970, Kato established his own kiln and dedicated himself to traditional Mino ware styles such as Shino, Setoguro, and Ki-Seto. Over the decades, Kato’s technical mastery and artistic vision garnered numerous accolades, including the Asahi Newspaper Prize at the Japanese Traditional Crafts Exhibition (1968), the Chunichi Culture Award (1998), and designation as a Living National Treasure in 2010 for Setoguro ware. In 2012, he was awarded the Order of the Rising Sun, Gold Rays with Rosette. His works are exhibited in prestigious venues and public spaces throughout Japan. 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.