About the Works Artist: Tamekichi Mitsui III 三代三ツ井為吉(b.1935) Title of work: Kutani Ware Vase – Vibrance in Bloom This is an exquisite hand-painted porcelain vase created by Mitsui Tamekichi III, a renowned contemporary Japanese ceramic artist from Kutani, Ishikawa Prefecture. The piece beautifully reflects the rich tradition of Kutani ware, known for its vivid colors and intricate overglaze enamel decoration. The vase features a stunning bird-and-flower motif painted in deep greens, browns, and yellows over a finely speckled yellow background, showcasing the artist’s refined sense of color and composition. The shape of the vase is elegantly modern, blending traditional Kutani aesthetics with a contemporary sensibility. The artist’s signature and seal appear on the bottom of the vase, and it comes in its original wooden tomobako (signed storage box) with the artist’s inscription and seal, along with the original yellow cloth and biography sheet. About Kutani Ware Kutani ware is one of Japan’s most celebrated porcelain traditions, originating in the 17th century in Ishikawa Prefecture. Known for its vibrant overglaze enamels and artistic expressiveness, Kutani ware combines technical mastery with bold and colorful decoration. The hallmark of Kutani porcelain lies in its rich palette—especially the use of deep greens, blues, purples, reds, and yellows—applied in layers to create both intensity and depth. Over the centuries, several distinct styles have developed, from the early Ko-Kutani (Old Kutani) period to the more refined and painterly works of the modern era. Modern Kutani artists continue this tradition while exploring contemporary forms and motifs, maintaining the perfect harmony between craftsmanship, elegance, and innovation. Each piece of Kutani ware is not just a vessel, but a work of art embodying the spirit of Japanese aesthetics and meticulous attention to detail. Size: Mouth diameter: 5.5 cm Width: 13.0 cm Height: 21.5 cm Weight: 1015 g About the Artist Mitsui Tamekichi III (born 1935) is a renowned Japanese ceramic artist and the third-generation successor of the Mitsui kiln, celebrated for his mastery of traditional Kutani ware. After graduating from Kanazawa College of Art in 1959, he trained under the famous master Isokichi Asakura and inherited the name “Tamekichi” in 1961. His works are entirely handmade and hand-painted, showcasing the rich Kutani five-color palette—green, yellow, red, purple, and indigo. Inspired by classical Ko-Kutani and Yoshidaya styles, he brings a modern elegance to traditional motifs such as flowers and birds, achieving perfect harmony between form and color. His art has been exhibited internationally and honored by the Japanese Imperial Family, including a presentation at the Smithsonian’s Arthur M. Sackler Gallery. Each piece reflects both refined craftsmanship and the timeless beauty of Kutani porcelain. Shipping from Japan with Tracking Number & Insurance. I promise fast shipping via FedEx or DHL as soon as possible! Import duties, taxes and charges are not included in the item price or shipping charges. These charges are the buyer’s responsibility. These charges are normally collected by the delivering freight (shipping) company or when you pick the item up - do not confuse them for additional shipping charges.