Vase - Bizen Ware “Tsurukubi” Flower Vase by Satoshi Watanabe with Original Box, Cloth, and Paper - Japan (No reserve price)

Please Note:
I usually ship within 24 hours after payment. However, payments made on Friday, Saturday, or Sunday will be shipped on Monday since the post office is closed on weekends. Tracking updates on Catawiki may take some time to appear. Shipping costs include insurance but not customs duties. Import taxes or customs fees may apply depending on your country, and I cannot influence or adjust them. If you disagree with the customs charges, please contact your local customs office directly. As this item ships from Japan, delivery may take longer than usual.

Description:
About Bizen Ware (備前焼):
Bizen ware is one of Japan’s oldest ceramic traditions, originating in Okayama Prefecture. It is characterized by iron-rich clay, complete absence of glaze, and natural kiln effects created through long, high-temperature firings.
Features such as hidasuki (fire-scarlet lines), goma (sesame ash patterns), and natural ash drips emerge organically during firing, making each piece a true one-of-a-kind creation. Bizen ware is admired for its earthy texture, warm colors, and durability.

About Satoshi Watanabe (渡辺聡):
Satoshi Watanabe is a contemporary Bizen artist known for combining traditional firing techniques with elegant modern forms. His works often emphasize the raw beauty of Bizen clay, presenting surfaces with dramatic contrasts between rich reddish tones, pale natural clay, and ash deposits.
His pieces are highly regarded for their refined silhouettes and expressive kiln-born textures.

About the “Tsurukubi” Shape (つるくび花入):
“Tsurukubi” literally means “crane neck,” referring to a vase with a slender, gracefully elongated neck rising from a rounded body. This form is valued in Japanese flower arrangement for its balance of elegance and presence, allowing both single stems and expressive seasonal branches to stand beautifully.

About This Vase:
This Bizen “tsurukubi” flower vase showcases a striking interplay of natural reddish tones, creamy clay surfaces, and dramatic ash-induced markings.

Key highlights:
A smooth, elongated neck that transitions gracefully into a rounded lower body

Rich, flame-like red drips and atmospheric shading produced naturally during firing

A warm, tactile clay surface that retains the earthy, unglazed character unique to Bizen ware

Natural ash accretions that create complex textures and depth

Accompanied by its original signed wooden box (tomobako), original cloth (tomofuku), and paper insert, confirming its authenticity and provenance

The piece radiates a powerful yet refined presence—perfect for both modern interiors and traditional Japanese settings.

Dating:
Based on style, signature, and accompanying documents, this vase was produced in the Heisei to Reiwa era (1990s–2020s), consistent with Watanabe’s active period.

Antique/Vintage Notice:
This is a vintage item. Please note that it may show natural signs of age, such as minor wear, slight discoloration, or subtle imperfections. These characteristics are part of its history and enhance its authenticity.

Shipping & Handling:
We ship worldwide from Japan using insured and trackable services. All items are professionally packed to ensure safe delivery. Import duties or customs fees are the buyer’s responsibility. Delivery may take time depending on your location. Feel free to reach out with any questions.