■ 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. ■ Authenticity & Handcrafted Nature: This piece is a genuine, hand-crafted work by the Japanese ceramic artist Manabu Sakakibara, complete with its original signed wooden box (tomobako) and accompanying leaflet. Each element—from the shaping to the firing—reflects the individuality of traditional wood-fired Bizen pottery. The natural kiln effects ensure that no two pieces are ever alike, making this a one-of-a-kind collectible. ■ Estimated Period: Late 20th century to early 21st century (1980–2020) — a period marked by the revival and reinterpretation of traditional Bizen firing techniques, where contemporary artists explored natural kiln effects as expressive, sculptural elements. ■ Description: This powerful Bizen ware flower vase exemplifies the raw beauty and elemental force of one of Japan’s most ancient ceramic traditions. The form is bold and organic, with a slightly compressed silhouette that enhances its sculptural presence. What is Bizen Ware? Bizen ware is one of the Six Ancient Kilns of Japan, originating over 1,000 years ago in Okayama Prefecture. It is characterized by unglazed surfaces and wood-firing techniques, where ash, flame, and placement within the kiln create natural patterns and colors. The absence of applied glaze allows the clay and fire to interact directly, producing deeply expressive surfaces. About Manabu Sakakibara: Manabu Sakakibara is a contemporary Bizen ceramic artist known for embracing traditional firing methods while emphasizing bold forms and dynamic surface effects. His works often highlight the unpredictable beauty of kiln transformations, elevating Bizen from functional ware to sculptural art. What is Kiln-Transformed Hiiro (Scarlet Fire Marking)? Hiiro refers to the rich reddish hues that appear naturally during firing when areas of the clay are exposed to direct flame and oxygen. This phenomenon is highly prized in Bizen ware, symbolizing the direct imprint of fire itself. The vivid reddish tones seen on this piece are a hallmark of masterful kiln control. What is Natural Ash Glaze (Shizen-yu) Effect? Natural ash glaze occurs when wood ash from the kiln settles on the surface of the piece during firing and melts into a glassy coating. This creates organic, flowing textures and subtle color transitions that cannot be artificially replicated. The interplay between matte clay and glossy ash deposits gives the surface remarkable depth and visual complexity. Form and Function – Flower Vase (Hanaire): In Japanese aesthetics, a flower vase is not merely a container but an integral part of artistic display, especially in tea ceremony settings. The sculptural form and natural surface variations of this vase enhance the beauty of seasonal floral arrangements, while also standing alone as a striking art object. Tomobako (Original Wooden Box): The included signed wooden box authenticates the work and preserves its provenance. Such boxes are highly valued in Japanese art culture, often inscribed by the artist and serving as an essential component for collectors. ■ Expert’s Insight: This piece stands out for its exceptional balance between controlled form and uncontrolled natural effects. The dramatic contrast between the fiery hiiro tones and the flowing natural ash glaze creates a surface that feels almost alive—an embodiment of earth and fire in dialogue. Collectors of Bizen ware highly prize such vivid kiln effects, especially when combined with a strong sculptural silhouette. This is not merely a vessel, but a statement piece that captures the essence of Japanese ceramic philosophy. ■ Antique/Vintage Notice: This item may show slight signs of age and handling due to its handmade nature and storage over time. These characteristics are not defects but are considered part of the authenticity and charm of traditional Japanese ceramics. ■ 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.