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: What is Shigaraki Ware? Shigaraki ware is one of Japan’s Six Ancient Kilns (Rokkoyō), with origins dating back over 1,200 years. Renowned for its raw, earth-driven aesthetic, Shigaraki pottery celebrates the direct dialogue between clay, fire, ash, and gravity. Rather than pursuing decorative perfection, Shigaraki ware embraces natural kiln effects—ash deposits, scorched surfaces, and spontaneous glaze flows—making each piece a unique, unrepeatable result of the firing process. This philosophy resonates strongly with contemporary European collectors who value material honesty and sculptural presence. What is Dripped Glaze (Tarashi-yu)? Tarashi-yu refers to a technique in which glaze is intentionally poured or allowed to run freely during firing. The glaze follows gravity and flame, creating dynamic vertical streams and pooling effects. In this vase, the dripped glaze cascades dramatically from the shoulder, producing rhythmic movement and depth. The result is a surface that feels alive—an unplanned collaboration between the artist and the kiln. What is Sansai (Three-Color Glaze)? Sansai, meaning “three colors,” traditionally refers to the use of multiple contrasting glazes—often amber, green, and creamy white—interacting during firing. While historically associated with ancient East Asian ceramics, modern Japanese potters reinterpret sansai through contemporary firing techniques. Here, earthy amber, deep iron-rich browns, and pale ash-white tones melt and overlap organically, creating a richly layered surface that shifts subtly under changing light. What is a Tsuru-kubi (Crane-Neck) Vase? A tsuru-kubi vase is defined by its long, elegant neck rising from a rounded body, resembling the posture of a crane. This form has been prized in Japanese aesthetics for centuries, as it balances tension and grace. In flower arrangement (ikebana), such vases are highly valued for their ability to frame negative space while maintaining a powerful sculptural presence even when unfilled. The Vase Itself This piece commands attention through its strong silhouette and dramatic glaze movement. The contrast between the softly rounded body and the sharply rising neck creates visual tension, while the flowing sansai glaze animates the surface. The lower area shows subtle ash textures and kiln scars, grounding the work in Shigaraki’s ancient tradition, while the upper dripped glazes introduce painterly dynamism. This balance places the vase squarely in the realm of collectible sculptural ceramics rather than utilitarian craft. Estimated Period Late 20th century to early 21st century. This period saw renewed international appreciation for Shigaraki ware, particularly among European collectors and galleries focusing on natural glaze ceramics and wabi-sabi aesthetics. Expert’s Insight: This is a highly compelling example of modern Shigaraki expression, combining ancient kiln philosophy with bold visual impact. The strong tsuru-kubi form and confident dripped sansai glaze elevate the piece beyond decorative pottery into sculptural territory. Comparable works are increasingly featured in private European collections and museum-oriented ceramic exhibitions. For Catawiki bidders seeking a statement piece with both historical grounding and contemporary appeal, this vase represents an exceptional acquisition opportunity. 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.