Modern Zougan Inlay Vase - Geometric Contemporary Design - Ceramic - 神谷啓介 Kamiya Keisuke - Japan - 1900-2000
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Selected by Surya Rutten
Has over 25 years' experience in Asian art and owned an art gallery.
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Modern Zougan inlay vase by Kamiya Keisuke (神谷啓介), Echizen ware, ceramic, 32 cm high, 20 cm wide, 20 cm deep, in excellent condition with the original signed tomobako.
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Description from the seller
Item Description:
This is a striking contemporary Zougan (Inlay) Vase crafted by ceramic artist Kamiya Keisuke (神谷啓介) at the Echizen Shimizu Kiln.
The piece represents a sophisticated fusion of traditional Echizen ware techniques with modern geometric design sensibilities.
Echizen ware (Echizen-yaki) is one of Japan's Six Ancient Kilns (Rokkoyō), with a history spanning approximately 850 years back to the late Heian period.
Originating from Echizen Town in Fukui Prefecture, this ceramic tradition is characterized by high-temperature firing without glaze, which creates natural ash glazing and distinctive surface textures.
The local clay, rich in iron content, produces warm earth tones and robust, durable vessels.
This vase showcases the zougan (象嵌) or inlay technique, where contrasting clay is pressed into carved patterns on the surface before firing.
The geometric patterns create a striking contemporary aesthetic while honoring traditional craft methods.
The asymmetrical opening and the distinctive curved form—described as reminiscent of an expectant mother's belly—demonstrate the artist's creative interpretation of organic forms.
The piece embodies the modern evolution of Echizen ware, which has experienced a renaissance since the post-war period when the kiln community welcomed ceramic artists from across Japan.
Today, Echizen potters work in diverse styles, from preserving ancient yakishime (unglazed firing) traditions to exploring contemporary artistic expressions.
The vase comes complete with its original signed wooden box (tomobako), ensuring authenticity and proper documentation.
This substantial piece serves beautifully as both a functional flower vessel and a striking sculptural object, bringing the warmth and character of Echizen clay into contemporary living spaces.
Size
Height: 32 cm
Width: 20 cm
Depth: 20 cm
Weight: 2,181 g
Condition
Excellent condition, near mint. No chips or cracks. The piece displays natural ceramic characteristics consistent with the firing process.
Artist Profile
Kamiya Keisuke (神谷啓介)
A contemporary ceramic artist working with Echizen ware traditions at the Echizen Shimizu Kiln in Fukui Prefecture. Kamiya specializes in the zougan (inlay) technique, creating works that bridge traditional Japanese ceramic methods with modern design aesthetics.
Working within the distinguished tradition of Echizen-yaki—one of Japan's Six Ancient Kilns—Kamiya explores innovative forms and surface treatments while respecting the material qualities of the local iron-rich clay. His works are characterized by bold geometric patterns, asymmetrical forms, and a contemporary sensibility that appeals to modern collectors and design enthusiasts.
His pieces reflect the vibrant creative community that has developed in Echizen since the post-war revival, when the region welcomed ceramic artists from throughout Japan to establish the Echizen Ceramic Village (Echizen Tōgeimura), fostering new interpretations of this ancient ceramic tradition.
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.
Seller's Story
We have been experienced as an antique dealer for more than a decade, we select and purchase high-quality products from all over Japan. I carefully select items with good taste, whether famous or not. I offer you an encounter with unknown Japanese goods.
Owner Profile
Name: Michito Nagahiro
Born in 1986 in Sapporo, Hokkaido. From an early age, I have been fascinated by the beautiful and practical designs of Japanese art, antiques, and consumer products, as well as the mindset and dedication of craftsmen and artists. I frequently visited museums and solo exhibitions as part of my daily life.
In 2012, under the guidance of a top mentor in the industry, I established myself as an antique dealer, handling a wide range of items, including Japanese antiques and artworks. Since 2017, I have specialized in selling Japanese antiques and fine art, primarily in Europe, achieving over 20,000 successful sales to date.
In 2019, I launched a completely free service to support individuals in Japan who experience loneliness. This initiative involves personally visiting people, engaging in conversations, sharing meals, and, if necessary, providing career advice. More than 1,000 people reach out to me annually for support.
Additionally, I am committed to promoting and supporting the sales of emerging artists whose work has not yet received public recognition. My philosophy goes beyond merely selling objects—I strive to convey the stories, history, and emotions embedded in each piece. By doing so, I aim to connect people with the lives of the artists and bring inspiration to those who encounter their work.
Item Description:
This is a striking contemporary Zougan (Inlay) Vase crafted by ceramic artist Kamiya Keisuke (神谷啓介) at the Echizen Shimizu Kiln.
The piece represents a sophisticated fusion of traditional Echizen ware techniques with modern geometric design sensibilities.
Echizen ware (Echizen-yaki) is one of Japan's Six Ancient Kilns (Rokkoyō), with a history spanning approximately 850 years back to the late Heian period.
Originating from Echizen Town in Fukui Prefecture, this ceramic tradition is characterized by high-temperature firing without glaze, which creates natural ash glazing and distinctive surface textures.
The local clay, rich in iron content, produces warm earth tones and robust, durable vessels.
This vase showcases the zougan (象嵌) or inlay technique, where contrasting clay is pressed into carved patterns on the surface before firing.
The geometric patterns create a striking contemporary aesthetic while honoring traditional craft methods.
The asymmetrical opening and the distinctive curved form—described as reminiscent of an expectant mother's belly—demonstrate the artist's creative interpretation of organic forms.
The piece embodies the modern evolution of Echizen ware, which has experienced a renaissance since the post-war period when the kiln community welcomed ceramic artists from across Japan.
Today, Echizen potters work in diverse styles, from preserving ancient yakishime (unglazed firing) traditions to exploring contemporary artistic expressions.
The vase comes complete with its original signed wooden box (tomobako), ensuring authenticity and proper documentation.
This substantial piece serves beautifully as both a functional flower vessel and a striking sculptural object, bringing the warmth and character of Echizen clay into contemporary living spaces.
Size
Height: 32 cm
Width: 20 cm
Depth: 20 cm
Weight: 2,181 g
Condition
Excellent condition, near mint. No chips or cracks. The piece displays natural ceramic characteristics consistent with the firing process.
Artist Profile
Kamiya Keisuke (神谷啓介)
A contemporary ceramic artist working with Echizen ware traditions at the Echizen Shimizu Kiln in Fukui Prefecture. Kamiya specializes in the zougan (inlay) technique, creating works that bridge traditional Japanese ceramic methods with modern design aesthetics.
Working within the distinguished tradition of Echizen-yaki—one of Japan's Six Ancient Kilns—Kamiya explores innovative forms and surface treatments while respecting the material qualities of the local iron-rich clay. His works are characterized by bold geometric patterns, asymmetrical forms, and a contemporary sensibility that appeals to modern collectors and design enthusiasts.
His pieces reflect the vibrant creative community that has developed in Echizen since the post-war revival, when the region welcomed ceramic artists from throughout Japan to establish the Echizen Ceramic Village (Echizen Tōgeimura), fostering new interpretations of this ancient ceramic tradition.
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.
Seller's Story
We have been experienced as an antique dealer for more than a decade, we select and purchase high-quality products from all over Japan. I carefully select items with good taste, whether famous or not. I offer you an encounter with unknown Japanese goods.
Owner Profile
Name: Michito Nagahiro
Born in 1986 in Sapporo, Hokkaido. From an early age, I have been fascinated by the beautiful and practical designs of Japanese art, antiques, and consumer products, as well as the mindset and dedication of craftsmen and artists. I frequently visited museums and solo exhibitions as part of my daily life.
In 2012, under the guidance of a top mentor in the industry, I established myself as an antique dealer, handling a wide range of items, including Japanese antiques and artworks. Since 2017, I have specialized in selling Japanese antiques and fine art, primarily in Europe, achieving over 20,000 successful sales to date.
In 2019, I launched a completely free service to support individuals in Japan who experience loneliness. This initiative involves personally visiting people, engaging in conversations, sharing meals, and, if necessary, providing career advice. More than 1,000 people reach out to me annually for support.
Additionally, I am committed to promoting and supporting the sales of emerging artists whose work has not yet received public recognition. My philosophy goes beyond merely selling objects—I strive to convey the stories, history, and emotions embedded in each piece. By doing so, I aim to connect people with the lives of the artists and bring inspiration to those who encounter their work.
Details
Dynastic Style/Period
1900-2000
Artist
神谷啓介 Kamiya Keisuke
Country of Origin
Japan
Material
Ceramic
Height
32 cm
Width
20 cm
Title of artwork
Modern Zougan Inlay Vase - Geometric Contemporary Design
Depth
20 cm
Condition
Good condition
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