This is a rare black-glazed ceramic flower vase (Kuroji-yū Hanaire) created by Kamei Masaru (亀井勝) of Tōzan-gama (洞山窯). The vase features a powerful yet refined form with a deep, lustrous black glaze. Carved into the surface is an elegant bird motif, subtly emerging from the dark glaze, giving the piece a quiet sense of movement and sophistication. The vase bears the artist’s signature (在銘) and comes with its original tomobako (共箱), confirming authenticity and provenance. The surface shows intentional texture and natural kiln effects, characteristic of studio ceramics, enhancing its wabi-sabi aesthetic. This piece is not only suitable as a flower vessel but also stands as a sculptural art object, making it highly appealing to collectors of Japanese modern ceramics and antique art. Given its rarity, signed nature, and preserved original box, this work represents a valuable example of postwar Japanese ceramic artistry. Size (cm) Width: 17 cm Depth: 15.5 cm Height: 22.5 cm Weight Approximately 4 kg Artist Profile Masaru Kamei was born as the son of the Seto ceramic artist Seiichi Kamei and has been active on the front lines of the ceramic world for many years as one of Seto’s leading potters. At the age of 20, he was selected for the Nitten Exhibition for the first time, and thereafter received numerous awards, primarily through Nitten. In 2012, he was honored with the Minister of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology Award at Nitten. He is particularly known for his sculptural works using ash glazes and black ceramics. His series of works that evoke the image of weathered walls are regarded as some of his most representative creations. Biography 1933 – Born in Seto City, Aichi Prefecture 1953 – First selection at the 9th Nitten Exhibition 1967 – Contemporary Crafts Award, 6th Japan Contemporary Craft Art Exhibition 1970 – Governor of Mie Prefecture Award, 8th Asahi Ceramic Art Exhibition 1971 – Governor of Mie Prefecture Award, 9th Asahi Ceramic Art Exhibition 1973 – Chunichi Grand Prize, 1st Chunichi International Ceramic Art Exhibition 1974 – Special Selection Award, 6th Nitten Exhibition 1976 – Special Selection Award, 8th Nitten Exhibition 1987 – Cultural Award, Aichi Prefecture Arts and Culture Award 1992 – Exhibition: “Tradition and Avant-Garde: Ceramics in Contemporary Japan”, Frankfurt, Germany 1993 – Exhibition: “Contemporary Crafts: New Japanese Arts and Crafts”, Bremen, Germany 1994 – Prime Minister’s Award, 33rd Japan Contemporary Craft Art Exhibition 1996 – Aichi Prefecture Education Commendation; Seto City Public Service Merit Award 2000 – Commendation from the Governor of Aichi Prefecture 2002 – Minister of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology Award for Regional Cultural Merit; Tokai Television Cultural Award 2010 – Special Exhibition at Seto City Art Museum: “Masaru Kamei Ceramic Art Exhibition” Accessories Original Tomobako (Signed Wooden Box) Since it is an old item, there are small scratches and stains, but it is in good condition. Please be sure to check. Import duties, VAT (Value Added Tax), and customs clearance fees are not included in the product price or shipping costs and are the responsibility of the purchaser.Please check your country's import duties before bidding. Please be sure to respond to phone calls and emails from your country's customs or the delivery company regarding customs clearance procedures. If you are unable to contact them, your package will be returned to Japan and reshipment will incur double the shipping costs. Thank you for your cooperation. [About Shipping] We will ship via EMS, DHL or FedEx depending on the situation. Please note that shipments from Japan take several days to arrive, so please use the tracking number provided upon shipment to track your package. Items will be carefully packaged and shipped to prevent damage. We may use recycled packaging to make efficient use of resources. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation.