Item Description: This is an elegant incense vessel created by Tamura Ryoichi, son of Living National Treasure Tamura Koichi. This piece represents the artistic lineage of one of the most distinguished families in contemporary ceramic arts, bridging sculptural sensibility with ceramic tradition. The incense vessel demonstrates refined craftsmanship and aesthetic sophistication characteristic of an artist trained in both sculpture and ceramics. Tamura Ryoichi brought a unique perspective to ceramic art, having first established himself as an accomplished sculptor before transitioning to work with clay. His sculptural background profoundly influenced his approach to ceramic forms, resulting in works that possess both structural integrity and expressive power. The artist received recognition early in his career with a silver prize at a major art exhibition, and continued to participate in significant contemporary art exhibitions throughout his career. Growing up as the son of a Living National Treasure specializing in iron painting techniques provided Tamura with intimate exposure to the highest levels of ceramic mastery from childhood. This heritage, combined with his formal training in sculpture at a prestigious art university, created a distinctive artistic foundation. The piece comes with its original signed wooden tomobako storage box and accompanying documentation, confirming authenticity and provenance. Size Height: 9.0 cm Width: 14.3 cm Depth: 14.3 cm Condition Excellent condition with no visible damage or restoration. Artist Profile Tamura Ryoichi was born in 1946 as the eldest son of Tamura Koichi, who would later be designated as a Living National Treasure for his mastery of iron painting ceramic techniques. Growing up in an environment steeped in ceramic artistry, Tamura was exposed from an early age to the dedication and discipline required for excellence in the craft, though his own artistic path would initially take a different direction. Tamura pursued his education at the sculpture department of a prestigious art university, graduating in 1970. That same year, he received remarkable recognition when he was awarded the silver prize at a major juried exhibition, marking an auspicious beginning to his artistic career. He continued his advanced studies, completing his graduate program in 1972, further refining his sculptural skills and conceptual approach to three-dimensional form. In 1972, Tamura participated in an international sculpture symposium, engaging with artists and ideas from diverse cultural contexts. This international exposure broadened his artistic perspective and contributed to his evolving artistic language. Throughout the 1970s and 1980s, he continued to develop his practice, participating in group exhibitions including a notable ceramic sculpture exhibition in 1983. By 1987, Tamura had achieved sufficient recognition to receive a prefectural art and culture encouragement award, acknowledging his contributions to the regional art scene. In 1994, he participated in a craft exhibition, and the following year in 1995, he received an effort prize from an association, recognizing his continued dedication to his artistic practice. A significant milestone came in 1997 when his work was acquired for a major institutional collection, affirming the international significance of his artistic achievement. In 1999, he held a solo exhibition at a gallery, demonstrating his sustained creative output and artistic development. His work gained broader public attention in 2001 when it was featured in a television program dedicated to art and beauty. In 2004, Tamura presented an exhibition that showcased his mature artistic vision, continuing to explore the intersection of sculptural form and ceramic medium. Tragically, Tamura passed away in 2005, cutting short a career that had successfully bridged the worlds of sculpture and ceramics while honoring the legacy of his distinguished father. Throughout his career, Tamura Ryoichi navigated the complex terrain of being both the son of a Living National Treasure and an independent artist in his own right. His work reflected deep understanding of ceramic tradition inherited through his father, while his sculptural training brought fresh perspectives to form and space. The combination of these influences created a distinctive artistic voice that contributed meaningfully to contemporary ceramic art during his lifetime. 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. 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