Item Description: This is an exquisite Hana-Mishima Mizusashi (water jar) crafted by contemporary Kyoto ceramic artist Shirai Naoki (白井直樹). The piece showcases the refined elegance of Kyo-yaki (Kyoto ware) tradition combined with the delicate Hana-Mishima decorative technique. The Hana-Mishima technique is a sophisticated variation of the classical Mishima-de style, an ancient inlay ceramic technique. This method involves stamping intricate floral patterns into semi-dried clay and filling them with white slip (liquid clay), creating a beautiful contrast against the darker body. The name "Mishima" derives from the resemblance of these stamped patterns to the characters found on calendars issued from Mishima Taisha shrine in Shizuoka Prefecture during the Edo period. This mizusashi features an exceptionally delicate and intricate floral pattern covering the entire surface, demonstrating the artist's masterful control of the technique. The piece exhibits the characteristic high-temperature firing and refined craftsmanship associated with Kyoto ceramics. The harmonious balance between the detailed surface decoration and the classic vessel form makes it ideal for tea ceremony use or as a distinguished decorative object. The piece comes complete with its original signed wooden box (tomobako), accompanying cloth, and artist's biography card, ensuring authenticity and proper provenance documentation. As a mizusashi, this vessel traditionally serves to hold fresh water during tea ceremonies, representing purity and tranquility in the tea ritual. Its generous size and refined proportions make it suitable for formal tea gatherings while its artistic merit elevates it beyond mere utilitarian function. Size Height: 16 cm Width: 16 cm Depth: 16 cm Weight: 1,273 g Condition Excellent condition with no chips or cracks. The piece shows characteristic firing marks which are natural features of ceramic art. Artist Profile Shirai Naoki (白井直樹) A contemporary ceramic artist specializing in Kyo-yaki (Kyoto ware), Shirai Naoki is known for his mastery of traditional decorative techniques, particularly the intricate Hana-Mishima style. Working within the rich tradition of Kyoto ceramics, Shirai creates refined pieces that honor classical techniques while maintaining contemporary artistic sensibility. His works are characterized by exceptionally detailed surface patterns and precise craftsmanship, demonstrating deep understanding of traditional ceramic methods. Shirai's pieces are particularly appreciated for their suitability in tea ceremony contexts, where the balance between artistic beauty and functional excellence is paramount. His works have appeared in various auctions and private collections, reflecting the appreciation for his contribution to maintaining and advancing the distinguished tradition of Kyoto ceramic arts. 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.