Soft ash and milky glaze cascade over robust stoneware, enfolding a pomegranate that emerges as if from a quiet autumn garden. Description: This substantial vase presents a bell-shaped body rising to a cylindrical neck with a flat, disk-like rim. A pair of small looped lugs flank the shoulder, evoking classical bottle forms while lending the piece a distinctive silhouette. The overall form is generous and grounded, with a stable base that anchors its visual weight. The decoration centers on a single pomegranate branch rendered in iron-brown inlay against the pale Shino ground. The fruit is depicted partially open, revealing its seeded interior through delicate geometric patterning, while leaves extend naturally from the branch. Rivulets of milky white glaze descend from the upper registers, pooling and thinning as they traverse the body. Beneath this, warm orange-tan hidasuki-like flashing emerges where the glaze thins, and areas of grey-brown ash deposit create atmospheric passages across the surface. A fine crackle network covers the glazed areas, adding visual depth. The vessel's surface presents a complex interplay of intentional design and kiln effects: the controlled pomegranate inlay anchors the composition, while glaze runs, ash accumulation, and exposed clay body create passages of natural variation. The foot reveals unglazed stoneware with traces of kiln wash, and the interior shows pooled glaze with characteristic tonal variation. Shino ware is among the most celebrated of Japanese ceramic traditions, prized for its characteristic milky-white feldspathic glaze with warm, blushing tones. The integration of inlay technique (zōgan) within this glaze style represents a synthesis of decorative approaches that expands upon historical precedents. A work of commanding presence that rewards extended contemplation, inviting appreciation of both the artist's compositional vision and the transformative dialogue between glaze and flame. Dimensions: Height: 25 cm Width: 20 cm Depth: 20 cm Weight: 2,700 g Condition: No chips, cracks or restorations. Includes: Tomobako (signed wooden storage box with artist's signature and seal) Protective cloth wrapper Artist Profile: Masayuki Imai (1930–2023) was one of Japan’s most distinguished contemporary ceramic artists, renowned for his technical innovation, expressive creativity, and profound contributions to modern ceramic art. Born in Osaka and raised in Takehara, Hiroshima Prefecture, he began his ceramic training in Bizen before moving to Kyoto in 1953 to study under the influential masters Katsuo Seiryudo and Yaichi Kusube. His early achievements included becoming a founding member of the Seitōkai (Blue Ceramic Society) and establishing a strong presence within the Nitten exhibition system, where he received both the Special Selection and the Hokuto Prize. Imai is best known for developing and perfecting the men-zōgan (surface inlay) technique, in which clays with different shrinkage rates are embedded across broad surfaces to create dynamic textures and a layered sense of depth. He further expanded his artistic vocabulary with the creation of taidei-sai, a glaze inspired by the moss of Kyoto’s Saihoji Temple, noted for its tactile, atmospheric, and organic surface qualities. These innovations opened new frontiers in contemporary Japanese ceramics and became central to Imai’s artistic identity. His works—often featuring motifs of nature, flowers, birds, and aquatic life—are celebrated for their vivid expression and technical refinement. In 1972, he received the kiln name Hōzan from the Urasenke tea school, further cementing his standing in the world of ceramic arts. Over his long career, he served as a member of the Japan Art Academy and as an advisor to Nitten, mentoring numerous younger artists and playing a pivotal role in shaping Japan’s postwar ceramic landscape. Imai’s major honors include the Japan Ceramics Association Prize (1965), the Japan Art Academy Prize (1998), designation as a Person of Cultural Merit (2011), and the Order of Culture (2018)—Japan’s highest cultural honor. His works are held in major collections throughout Japan, and two museums in his hometown of Takehara are dedicated to preserving and celebrating his legacy. Additional Notes Please review all photos carefully as they are part of the item description. Shipping Information All items are shipped from Japan via DHL or Japan Post, depending on the destination. 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