Item Description: This is an exceptional ceramic vase created by Maeda Yasuaki 前田泰昭 of Taimei Kiln, featuring his signature technique of uzushio (whirlpool) pattern rendered in gosu (underglaze cobalt blue) and shinsha (copper red glaze). The piece exemplifies Maeda's mastery of the extremely difficult shinsha technique, for which he is recognized as Japan's foremost authority. The dynamic swirling pattern evokes the powerful movement of ocean whirlpools, achieved through Maeda's distinctive use of multiple kiln-transformation glazes. This artistic expression reflects his deep inspiration from natural phenomena—mountains, seas, sunrises, and sunsets—which he meticulously observes and sketches during early morning and evening drives. Maeda Yasuaki is a highly acclaimed Nitten (Japan Fine Arts Exhibition) member and special member, having exhibited for over 50 years. His achievements include two Nitten Special Selections, the Ministry of Education Award at the Japan New Crafts Exhibition, and numerous other prestigious honors. He established Taimei Kiln in 1973 at age 36 after working as a designer for an Arita porcelain manufacturer. This vase comes in a wooden box with minor damage. The piece itself is in excellent condition with no significant flaws, displaying the brilliant red and blue glazes characteristic of Maeda's celebrated work. Size Height: 26 cm Width: 30 cm Depth: 30 cm Weight: 5,350 g (5.35 kg) Condition Excellent condition with no notable scratches or damage. Wooden box shows minor wear. Artist Profile Maeda Yasuaki 前田泰昭 (born 1937) is one of Japan's most distinguished contemporary ceramic artists, based in Arita, Saga Prefecture. He is universally recognized as the foremost master of shinsha (copper red glaze) technique, one of the most challenging methods in Japanese ceramics that produces distinctive red hues through copper oxide. After working as a designer for an Arita porcelain manufacturer, Maeda established Taimei Kiln in 1973 at age 36. His artistic vision centers on capturing natural phenomena—mountains, oceans, sunrises, and sunsets—through innovative use of multiple kiln-transformation glazes. His illustrious career spans over five decades of Nitten exhibitions, including two Special Selections (1982, 1987). Major honors include the Ministry of Education Award at the Japan New Crafts Exhibition (1996), Cultural Merit Award from Saga Prefecture (1983), and recognition from the Minister of Education for regional cultural contributions (2005). He served as Nitten juror, Japan New Crafts Exhibition chief examiner, and currently holds positions as Nitten Special Member, advisor to the Japan New Crafts Artists Federation, and president of the Kyushu New Crafts Artists Federation. 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.