Item Description A magnificent Iga Dragon Vase (Iga Ryuzo Hanaire) by Takashi Tanimoto, standing at an impressive 46cm in height. This exceptional work showcases the artist's mastery of traditional Iga pottery techniques combined with contemporary sculptural vision. Exhibited at the artist's solo exhibition, this piece represents one of Tanimoto's most ambitious and celebrated creations. The vase features a powerful dragon motif that spirals dynamically around the vessel's form, embodying the mythical creature's energy and movement. The surface displays the characteristic rough texture and natural ash glaze effects achieved through wood-firing in an anagama kiln, creating a rich palette of earthy browns, charred blacks, and subtle orange-red tones where the flames kissed the clay most intensely. The dragon's sculptural details are rendered with remarkable skill, showing Tanimoto's deep understanding of both ceramic tradition and sculptural form. The vessel's substantial presence and dramatic scale make it suitable as both a functional flower container and a powerful decorative art object. The natural variations in color and texture that emerged during the firing process give the piece a living quality, with each viewing angle revealing new details in the play of light across its surface. This work exemplifies Tanimoto's philosophy of respecting Iga pottery's centuries-old heritage while fearlessly pushing its boundaries into contemporary artistic expression. The piece comes with its original tomobako (paulownia wood box), tomobuko (silk cloth), and accompanying documentation. Size Height: 46 cm Width: 17 cm Depth: 20 cm Weight 5,400 g / 5.4 kg Condition In excellent condition with no visible damage. Minor traces consistent with wood-firing process are inherent characteristics of anagama kiln pottery and contribute to the piece's artistic value. Artist Profile Takashi Tanimoto (born 1978) is a distinguished contemporary ceramic artist from Iga, Mie Prefecture, Japan. Born as the eldest son of renowned potter Kei Tanimoto, Takashi was immersed in the world of ceramics from birth. He studied aesthetics and art at Doshisha University before formally training at the Kyoto Prefectural Ceramic Technical School. He further honed his craft under master potter Tadashi Mori. In 2004, Tanimoto received a scholarship from the Okada Cultural Foundation to study in Italy, an experience that expanded his artistic vision beyond traditional Japanese pottery. Upon returning to Japan, he established his studio at the Iga Sanda Kiln, where he continues to create works that honor Iga pottery's 400-year heritage while incorporating contemporary sensibilities. Tanimoto's work has been exhibited extensively throughout Japan, including at prestigious venues such as Paramita Museum, major department stores across the country, and numerous gallery exhibitions. His participation in the 2007 New York Asian Art Fair marked his international presence. Known for his bold approach to traditional Iga ware, he achieves complex surfaces through multiple wood-firings, creating pieces that, while eschewing vibrant colors, somehow convey a sense of richness and vitality. His work successfully bridges the ancient and modern, appealing to both traditional tea ceremony practitioners and contemporary art collectors. 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.