Maker / Brand: Matsumoto Kiln (Matsumoto-gama) Title of Work: Kutani Ware Silver-Decorated Bottle Gourd-Shaped Vase (Ichirinsei / Flower Vase) This is a finely crafted Kutani porcelain vase from Matsumoto Kiln, featuring a distinctive gourd-shaped form and elegant silver overglaze decoration. The piece is designed as a single-stem vase (hanai­re / ichirinsei) — ideal for displaying a solitary blossom or small floral arrangement — and reflects both artistic refinement and traditional Japanese ceramic craftsmanship. Artistic Background — Kutani Ware Kutani ware is a renowned Japanese porcelain tradition that originated in the Kaga region (Ishikawa Prefecture). It is celebrated for its rich overglaze enamel decoration, vibrant palette, and expressive surface designs. Classical Kutani porcelain often incorporates motifs drawn from nature — including birds, flowers, and seasonal scenery — painted with meticulous brushwork and vivid color layering. (en.wikipedia.org ) Design and Technique — Silver Overglaze This vase’s most distinguishing feature is the silver overglaze decoration. Metal-infused glazes such as silver (ginsai) give the surface a subtle metallic sheen and refined accent that elevates the traditional painted imagery. The silver finish interacts beautifully with light, highlighting contours and adding visual richness to the porcelain surface without overwhelming the overall aesthetic. The bottle gourd shape — rounded on one end and narrowing toward the mouth — is both elegant and symbolic. In Japanese culture, the gourd form is often associated with protection and good fortune, making it a meaningful choice for decorative vessels. Form and Aesthetic Qualities Elegant silhouette: The smooth, rounded form with narrow opening suits minimalist floral expression. Refined surface: Silver accents and a carefully balanced glaze complement natural motifs and classical Kutani composition. Functional art: Designed to accentuate the beauty of a single stem or small arrangement, but equally compelling as a stand-alone art object. Decorative and Collectible Appeal Classic and contemporary fusion: Combines traditional Kutani painting with refined metal glaze techniques. Versatile display: Works beautifully in traditional interiors, minimalist décor, or curated art collections. Cultural resonance: Reflects centuries-old Japanese ceramic heritage in an object that remains visually and artistically dynamic. This piece will appeal to collectors of fine Japanese ceramics, lovers of crafted porcelain, and anyone seeking an elegant decorative object that melds tradition with subtle artistry. What is Kutani Ware? Kutani ware (also called Kutani-yaki) is a traditional Japanese colored porcelain style that originated in the Kaga region of Ishikawa Prefecture in the early Edo period around the mid-17th century. It is one of Japan’s most celebrated forms of decorative porcelain, admired for its bold painting, vibrant palette, and artistic diversity. History and Origins Origins: Production began around 1655 when porcelain clay suitable for ceramics was discovered near Kutani village. Under the patronage of the Maeda clan of the Kaga Domain, artisans learned porcelain techniques and established a kiln in the region. Ko-Kutani (Old Kutani): The earliest period of Kutani ware (1655–early 18th century) is referred to as Ko-Kutani and is known for its rich, bold use of colors and powerful hand-painted designs. These pieces are now rare and highly valued. Revival (Saikō Kutani): After production ceased for several decades, Kutani ware was revived in the early 19th century, especially around Kanazawa. New kilns and painters introduced evolving styles, including more refined overglaze techniques and red-dominant patterns. Modern Era: Over time, Kutani became widely recognized and exported, with craftsmen continuing to develop both traditional and contemporary expressions of the art form. Distinctive Characteristics Vivid Overglaze Decoration: Kutani ware is particularly noted for its overglaze enameling, a method where painted designs are applied on already-glazed porcelain and then fired again, creating rich, luminous surface art. Five-Color Palette (Gosai): A hallmark of Kutani ware is the use of the traditional five colors — green, yellow, purple, navy blue, and red — often called Kutani gosai. These bold hues are used in combination to produce vibrant and expressive motifs. Motifs and Themes: Common designs include natural subjects such as birds and flowers, scenic landscapes, geometric patterns, and symbolic imagery that reflect seasons, nature, and cultural aesthetics. Surface Treatment: Some pieces incorporate gold or metallic accents as part of the decoration, adding luxurious highlights to intricate painted designs. Styles and Techniques Over time, multiple Kutani painting styles have emerged, each associated with specific kilns or artistic approaches. These include: Bold polychrome (iroe / gosai) styles from early periods. Red-dominant patterns (aka-e) and gold-accented finishes introduced in revived Kutani. Modern interpretations blending traditional techniques with contemporary design sensibilities. Despite stylistic variety, all are united by strong, expressive surface decoration and expert use of color. Cultural and Artistic Importance Kutani ware is widely considered one of Japan’s major ceramic traditions, alongside others like Arita and Satsuma ceramics. It has been recognized as a traditional craft and continues to be produced by hundreds of workshops and master painters in Ishikawa Prefecture. Throughout its history, Kutani ware has found audiences both in Japan and abroad, valued not only as tableware and functional ceramics but also as decorative art objects that showcase the technical skill and artistic creativity of its makers. Shipping from Japan with Tracking Number & Insurance. I promise fast shipping via FedEx or DHL as soon as possible! Import duties, taxes and charges are not included in the item price or shipping charges. These charges are the buyer’s responsibility. These charges are normally collected by the delivering freight (shipping) company or when you pick the item up - do not confuse them for additional shipping charges.