Item Description: Distinctive jar by Koinuma Michio (1936-2020), an iconic ceramic artist of Mashiko ware known for his unique sculptural aesthetic inspired by ancient artifacts. This compelling jar exemplifies Koinuma's characteristic approach to form and surface, drawing inspiration from ancient Japanese earthenware and bronze vessels. Standing 22.5 cm tall, the jar features Koinuma's signature robust, angular construction that evokes the strength and mystery of archaeological artifacts. The dark, lustrous surface recalls the patina of ancient bronze, while the form itself suggests connections to haniwa clay figures and prehistoric pottery. This synthesis of ancient and contemporary sensibilities created Koinuma's distinctive visual language. Koinuma was profoundly influenced by his childhood experience assisting his elementary school teacher, an archaeology specialist, with excavation work. This early exposure to ancient artifacts shaped his entire aesthetic philosophy and drove him to create objects with his own hands. After abandoning university studies to pursue ceramics, he established the Ichimoku Kiln in Mashiko in 1970. The artist was part of a generation of Mashiko ceramists who, inspired by the revolutionary work of Kamoda Shoji, explored clay's expressive potential beyond traditional wheel-throwing techniques. Koinuma's hand-building methods allowed him to create forms that transcended conventional vessel aesthetics, resulting in works that function simultaneously as utilitarian objects and sculptural art. This jar represents Koinuma's mastery of transforming clay into objects that seem to exist outside of time—simultaneously ancient and contemporary. The piece comes with tomobako (original signed wooden box), confirming its authenticity. In excellent condition, this work demonstrates why Koinuma was celebrated as one of Mashiko's most distinctive artistic voices. Size Height: 22.5 cm Width: 17 cm Depth: 12 cm Weight: 2,212 g / 2.212 kg Condition The piece is in excellent condition with no visible damage or repairs. Artist Profile Michio Koinuma Koinuma Michio (1936-2020) was born in Tokyo and established his Ichimoku Kiln in Mashiko, Tochigi Prefecture in 1970. His artistic vision was profoundly shaped by childhood experiences assisting with archaeological excavations led by his elementary school teacher, who specialized in archaeology. These early encounters with ancient artifacts left an indelible impression that would define his entire creative output. After enrolling in university, Koinuma found himself unable to forget these formative experiences with ancient objects. Driven by a desire to create with his own hands, he left university to pursue ceramics independently. He taught himself the craft and developed a highly personal aesthetic vocabulary. Koinuma was part of a generation of Mashiko artists who, inspired by Kamoda Shoji, explored clay's sculptural potential beyond wheel-thrown forms. His work freed him from conventional vessel-making constraints, allowing him to expand ceramic expression into new territories. This approach aligned perfectly with Mashiko's tradition of artistic freedom and individual expression. His works range from tea vessels and sake cups to flower containers and purely sculptural pieces, all unified by his distinctive aesthetic. Koinuma created forms reminiscent of ancient earthenware, haniwa figures, and archaic bronze vessels, rendered in surfaces that evoke aged copper patina. He also worked with Oribe glazes and incorporated bold arabesque patterns into his tea wares and vessels. In 1974, Koinuma received the top prize at the North Kanto Art Exhibition, and in 1975 held his first solo exhibition in Tokyo's Ginza district. In 1991, he was honored with the Tochigi Prefecture Maronie Cultural Prize. Throughout his career, he continued producing distinctive works until his death in August 2020 at age 84. His legacy as one of Mashiko's most unique artistic voices was celebrated in a 2022 retrospective at the Mashiko Ceramic Art Museum. 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.