– Hand-blown vessel by Ichiya Akira (1937–2003), pioneer of modern Japanese art glass and creator of the Yōkisai (kiln-transformation) technique – Rich amber and crimson hues achieved through free-blown chūbuki method, organic form approximately 18 cm height, 18.5 cm diameter – Elegant spherical silhouette with subtle asymmetry, suitable for ikebana or as a standalone sculptural accent Summary: This hand-blown glass vase by Ichiya Akira captures the warmth and vitality of Japan's modern glass movement. Born in Yamagata Prefecture in 1937, Ichiya was a founding figure in post-war Japanese art glass, known for developing the Yōkisai technique—a process that transforms silver leaf through intense heat, producing luminous gold tones embedded within molten glass. Though this particular vase does not feature the signature gold-leaf effect, it demonstrates his mastery of colour, form, and the expressive potential of free-blown glass. The vessel displays deep amber and crimson hues that shift with light, its rounded form suggesting both strength and delicacy. Ichiya's work was exhibited internationally, and he received the Grand Prize at the French Art Exhibition in 1990. This piece offers a tangible link to a pivotal era in Japanese glass craft, when artists moved beyond functional production to explore glass as a medium for fine art. Japanese art glass emerged as a distinct creative field in the mid-20th century, influenced by both traditional crafts and Western studio glass movements. Ichiya Akira was among the generation of artists who elevated glass from industrial material to expressive medium. Trained initially in painting, he shifted to glass in the 1960s, drawn to its interplay of transparency, colour, and light. He became a member of the Sanki-kai (Three Trajectory Association), an influential group that championed contemporary craft, and later joined the Japan Glass Art Crafts Association. His signature Yōkisai technique—fusing silver leaf within the glass body and allowing kiln heat to transform it into shimmering gold—was widely admired for its technical difficulty and visual impact. Ichiya's works were collected by museums in Japan and France, including the Musée National Marc Chagall, and his legacy continues to inspire contemporary Japanese glass artists. This vase is a classic example of Ichiya's chūbuki (free-blown) method, where molten glass is gathered on the blowpipe and shaped through breath, gravity, and hand tools. The result is a form that feels spontaneous yet considered, with gentle asymmetries that reveal the maker's hand. The body swells into a rounded sphere, tapering slightly at the rim, creating a silhouette that balances stability with lightness. The colour palette—deep amber warming into crimson—suggests autumn leaves, glowing embers, or the late-afternoon sun filtered through foliage. These hues are achieved by mixing metal oxides into the glass batch, a process requiring precise control of temperature and timing. Light passing through the walls reveals subtle striations and tonal shifts, evidence of the glass's fluid origins. In a modern interior, this vase functions equally well as a vessel or a sculpture. Its warm tones complement natural materials—wood, linen, stone—and provide a focal point in minimalist settings where colour is used sparingly. Place it on a low table to catch morning light, or position it against a neutral wall where its silhouette reads clearly. The vase holds water and suits small arrangements—a few branches, dried grasses, or a single bold bloom—but it also stands beautifully empty, allowing the play of light and colour to take centre stage. Its scale—approximately 18 cm tall, 18.5 cm diameter—makes it substantial without overwhelming, and its rounded form invites touch, though the glass is delicate and best handled with care. Condition is good overall, consistent with age and careful use. Light surface scratches and minor scuffs are present, typical of vintage glass handled over decades. A few small kiln marks are visible, inherent to the free-blown process and considered part of the work's character. No chips, cracks, or structural damage observed. The glass retains its clarity and colour intensity. Suitable for display or gentle use. Ichiya Akira's works are sought after by collectors of modern Japanese glass and studio craft. His contributions to the field—technical innovation, international recognition, and a body of work that bridges craft tradition and fine art—place him among the important figures of Japan's post-war glass movement. Comparable pieces appear in museum collections and private holdings focused on 20th-century Japanese decorative arts. If you are drawn to the interplay of colour, light, and form, and appreciate objects that carry the imprint of an artist's hand, this vase offers a quiet but compelling presence. Shipping & Handling We ship worldwide via DHL or EMS with full insurance and tracking. Professional packing ensures safe arrival; combined shipping available for multiple wins. Local customs duties are the buyer's responsibility. Seller Guarantee We specialise in authentic Japanese art and guarantee this piece's authenticity. Questions welcome – we reply within 24 hours. 1145