An evocative vessel where bellflowers bloom in deep cobalt amid golden autumn grasses—a poetic tribute to the Kenzan aesthetic. Description: This cylindrical water jar (mizusashi) presents a refined interpretation of the Kenzan style, characterized by bold pictorial decoration on a soft, muted grey-green ground. The body of the vessel is generously adorned with a continuous scene of autumn grasses and flowers encircling its entire circumference. Bellflowers (kikyō) rendered in rich cobalt blue rise elegantly from clusters of foliage painted in iron-brown and grey ink tones. Sweeping golden grasses arc gracefully across the composition, their luminous gold accents catching the light and lending warmth to the autumnal theme. Scattered among the grasses are delicate touches of red and white, suggesting small blossoms or berries within the undergrowth. The glaze displays a gentle, slightly mottled texture with fine iron speckles throughout, enhancing the rustic quality associated with the Kenzan tradition. The rim is finished with a band of iron-brown glaze that provides a subtle visual frame. The vessel is fitted with a black lacquered lid featuring a simple ring-shaped handle (tsumami). The base bears a large painted signature mark within a rectangular cartouche, executed in iron pigment over a white slip panel. A small impressed seal is also visible on the interior of the foot. The piece is accompanied by a signed and sealed wooden storage box (tomobako). Cultural & Art Context: The Kenzan style, originating with the Edo-period master Ogata Kenzan (1663–1743), has long been celebrated for its painterly approach to ceramic decoration. Autumn grass motifs (akikusa) are among the most beloved subjects in Japanese art, evoking the transient beauty of the season. Water jars decorated in this manner hold a place of particular esteem in the tea ceremony, where seasonal awareness is central to the aesthetic experience. Collector Appeal: This water jar, with its accomplished brushwork, gold accents, and evocative autumnal imagery, offers collectors an appealing example of the Kenzan revival tradition. Complete with its lacquered lid, impressed seal, and signed storage box, it represents a well-documented piece suitable for both practical use in the tea room and display. Artist Profile: Kaga Zuizan is a ceramic artist continuing the traditions of Banko ware from Kuwana, Mie Prefecture. The Kaga family has produced distinguished potters over multiple generations. The third-generation Kaga Zuizan (born 1944) studied under his grandfather, the first-generation Zuizan, and succeeded to the name in 1984. He was designated a holder of Mie Prefecture Intangible Cultural Property for Banko ware (red overglaze enamel technique) in 2001. Working in the traditions of ancient Banko and Kyoto-style ceramics, he creates tea ceremony wares including tea bowls, water jars, flower vases, and incense containers, employing techniques such as red overglaze enamel, celadon, and Kenzan-style decoration. Shipping / Policy: Carefully packaged and shipped from Japan by Japan Post or DHL with tracking. If you purchase multiple items, combined shipping is available. Please contact us if needed. Import duties, VAT (or equivalent consumption tax), and any other fees are the responsibility of the buyer. Guarantee: Our shop is a licensed antiques dealer in Japan. We guarantee the authenticity of this work.