"Versatile Wabi-Sabi Art. Traditional Bizen Ware 'Uzukumaru' Hanging/Standing Vase by the Late Master Shunko Norimatsu." Up for auction is a stunning, highly textured Bizen ware (Bizen-yaki) flower vase crafted by the acclaimed Showa-era Japanese master, Shunko Norimatsu (born 1923). It comes complete with its original signed wooden box (Tomobako). [The Art, Practicality & Collector's Value] Clever Design & 2-Way Versatility: If you look closely at the photos, you will notice that the back side of the vase (below the metal ring) is purposefully designed to be flat. This ensures the vase sits securely and flush against the wall when hung. Furthermore, its stable base allows it to be used as a traditional freestanding vase on a table or shelf, making it a highly versatile 2-way art piece. Bizen Ware Magic: Bizen uses NO glaze. The rustic colors and textures (called Yohen) are created entirely by the natural reaction of the clay and extreme fire inside the kiln. Practical Benefit (Flowers Last Longer): Because Bizen ware is completely unglazed, the microscopic pores in the fired clay remain open. This allows the water to "breathe," keeping the water fresh longer and significantly extending the life of the flowers displayed in it. Collector's Tomobako: Includes the original custom-made wooden box, signed and sealed by the artist, serving as the ultimate certificate of authenticity. Highly Collectible (Late Master): Born in 1923, Shunko Norimatsu is a celebrated master of the Showa period. As he has passed away, his works are no longer being produced, making this a closed-edition piece of high collectible value. [Details] Type: Bizen Ware (Unglazed Stoneware) Artist: Shunko Norimatsu (1923 - deceased) Style: Kake-hanaire (Hanging Vase) & Freestanding Vase / Uzukumaru shape Dimensions (Vase): Approx. Height 13 cm x Width 9 cm x Depth 9 cm Signed: Artist seal on the vase, ink signature/seal on the wooden box. [Condition] Excellent condition. The vase is beautifully preserved with no chips, cracks, or leaks. The wooden box may have very minor signs of age.