Item Description This is an exquisite Shigaraki round plate created by renowned ceramic artist Kon Chiharu at his Kibigama kiln. Born in 1951 in Nagaoka, Niigata Prefecture, Kon studied under the legendary master Tsuji Seimei, one of Japan's most celebrated ceramic artists known for his pursuit of "akarusabi" (bright wabi-sabi) aesthetic. Kon specializes in traditional Shigaraki ware, employing ancient anagama (cave kiln) firing techniques using authentic Shigaraki clay. Despite working far from Shigaraki itself in Niigata, he has mastered the distinctive characteristics of this ceramic tradition. His works are distinguished by their rich natural ash glazing, dramatic kiln effects, and the warm fire colors that emerge through the wood-firing process - all hallmarks of genuine Shigaraki pottery. This round plate beautifully exemplifies Kon's craftsmanship, showcasing the natural beauty of Shigaraki clay enhanced by the unpredictable yet harmonious effects of wood firing. The piece comes with its original signed wooden box (tomobako), confirming its authenticity and provenance. Kon's achievements include winning the Family Grand Prize (Encouragement Award) at the Tanko Biennale Tea Ceremony Art Competition in 1992 and receiving the Niigata Kofu-kai Encouragement Award in the same year. His works have been exhibited at prestigious venues including Kuroda Toen in Tokyo, Isetan Department Store, and Matsuya Ginza. Size Height: 5 cm Width: 29 cm Depth: 29 cm Weight 1191 g / 1.2 kg Condition The plate is in excellent condition with no significant scratches or stains, showing minimal signs of age-appropriate wear. Artist Profile Kon Chiharu (b. 1951) is a distinguished ceramic artist based in Nagaoka, Niigata Prefecture. After graduating from Musashino Art University, he apprenticed under the legendary master Tsuji Seimei (1927-2008), who was renowned for his Shigaraki-style wood-fired ceramics and was honored as a Tokyo Metropolitan Distinguished Citizen. Working from his Kibigama studio, Kon has dedicated his career to creating authentic Shigaraki ware despite being geographically distant from the traditional Shigaraki region. He sources genuine Shigaraki clay and employs traditional anagama kiln firing methods to produce works that embody the essence of this ancient ceramic tradition. His works are characterized by natural ash glazes that cascade across surfaces, dramatic kiln effects with deep scorched tones, and the brilliant fire colors that emerge from extended wood firing. These elements combine to create the rich, expressive surfaces for which Shigaraki pottery is celebrated. Kon has exhibited widely, including solo exhibitions at black-label galleries and major department stores in Tokyo, and continues to be recognized as a leading contemporary practitioner of the Shigaraki tradition. 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.