This is a figurine of a monkey created by Asakura Isokichi. Its title is "Haruka" (Distant). It depicts a monkey with its right hand raised to its head, as if lost in thought. Made of ceramic, it has a very cute face. Whether placed inside a room or at the entrance, wherever it is placed, I believe that just seeing its adorable face will surely enrich one's heart. Asakura Isokichiwas a Japanese ceramic artist and a selected artist of Kutani ware. His real name was Yosaku. In 1981, he received the Japan Art Academy Award. In 1984, he became a member of the Japan Art Academy, and in 1992, he was designated as a Person of Cultural Merit. In 1996, he became the first Kutani ware artist to receive the Order of Culture. In 1993, the Asakura Isokichi Museum of Art was opened in his hometown of Terai Town. On April 9, 1998, he passed away due to respiratory failure at Kanazawa University Hospital. He was 85 years old. Kutani-yaki 九谷焼： Kutani-yaki is said to have been first fired in 1655 in Kutani Village, Echizen County, Kaga Province, during the early Edo period. It was commissioned by Maeda Toshitsugu, the lord of Oyamazaki Castle, to Gotō Saizaburō, a potter in his domain. Kutani-yaki is characterized by its richly colored glazes and bold, vigorous painting, distinguishing it from other overglaze enamel ceramics. Kutani-yaki is a traditional Japanese ceramic ware produced in the Kutani region of Kanazawa City, Ishikawa Prefecture. This region is particularly renowned and is one of the "Three Great Kilns of Japan," alongside Iga-yaki and Shino-yaki. Kutani-yaki is known for its beautiful hand-painted designs and distinctive techniques. One prominent feature is the use of vibrant glazes to depict intricate patterns, landscapes, flora, and fauna. Additionally, gold and silver leaf may be applied, adding further elegance to the pottery. The pottery comes in various shapes and serves different purposes, including tea bowls, vases, plates, teacups, and teapots. These ceramic wares are widely appreciated both within Japan and internationally, often chosen as souvenirs or gifts. Kutani-yaki boasts a long history, thriving during the Edo period. Even today, traditional methods are preserved, while contemporary artists continue to incorporate new art and design into their creations. Width 18.0 cm Depth 13.0 cm Height 16.0 cm Weight 800 g Condition: Condition is good. There are almost no small scratches, dirt, peeling, or abrasions. I kept it at home. There are many photos, so please take a look. Atention: The items listed for sale are all used collectibles. Please consider them to have signs of aging, such as stains, scratches, scuffs, tears, discoloration, fading, fraying, and changes in thread color. We will post as many photos as possible to make it easy to understand. As these are old items, we appreciate your understanding before making a purchase. Shipping: The lot will be carefully packaged and shipped from Japan. We will use either DHL or FedEx for a safe and secure transportation. It usually takes about 2-3 weeks for delivery, and the package will be shipped with a tracking number. Import duties, taxes, VAT, and any other charges are not included in the item price and shipping cost. Please check your country's import duties before bidding. 040221400405