Kutani Ware Decorative Vase with Twin Cranes Motif — by Masato Yashiki(谷敷正人) This striking decorative vase by Kutani ceramic artist Masato Yashiki is a refined example of contemporary Kutani craftsmanship that bridges classical symbolism and modern artistic sensibility. The work features an elegant pair of cranes rendered in dynamic composition, executed with expressive brushwork and accented by scattered gold leaf that glimmers softly against the deep earthen tones of the body. In Japanese culture, the crane is a revered auspicious motif symbolizing longevity, harmony, and prosperity. Here, the two cranes appear almost suspended in motion, their wings extended as if gliding through an unseen current of air. The circular halo-like form behind them suggests the moon or a symbolic sun disk, reinforcing themes of eternity and cyclical time. Rather than depicting a literal scene, Yashiki composes an atmosphere—one that invites contemplation rather than narration. The surface treatment demonstrates the artist’s sensitivity to texture and depth. The warm reddish-brown ground shows subtle firing variations, giving the vessel a quiet, organic presence. Over this, gold accents are applied in a deliberately scattered manner, reminiscent of drifting light or wind-carried petals. This controlled irregularity is a hallmark of skilled Kutani artists: it conveys spontaneity while remaining carefully balanced within the composition. Masato Yashiki’s works are known for combining traditional Kutani iconography with painterly abstraction. His approach does not simply reproduce historical styles; instead, he reinterprets them, allowing motifs such as cranes to function simultaneously as symbols, patterns, and gestures of movement. In this vase, the cranes form a rhythmic diagonal that guides the viewer’s eye across the surface, creating a sense of visual flow that changes depending on viewing angle and light. Beyond its decorative function, this piece possesses the presence of a sculptural object. Even when displayed without flowers, it holds the space with quiet dignity. The piece speaks not loudly but persistently—like a memory, or a distant bell—making it ideal for collectors who appreciate works that reward slow, attentive viewing. ◆About Masato Yashiki(谷敷正人)◆ Masato Yashiki is a ceramic artist known for his style, which incorporates traditional Kutani ware techniques while emphasizing contemporary decorative beauty. His works often feature auspicious motifs such as cranes, phoenixes, clouds, and waves, and are characterized by designs that combine auspiciousness with artistry. He particularly excels in the use of gold leaf, layering powder, lines, and surfaces to create a finish with depth that changes appearance depending on how the light hits it. As a result, his pieces are both practical and aesthetically pleasing, possessing a presence that straddles the boundary between craft and fine art. Furthermore, his compositions are bold and highly decorative, and the pattern arrangements that fill the vessel's surface create a powerful visual impact. His brushwork retains the thickness and strength of handcrafted work, giving each piece a unique appeal not found in mass-produced pieces. Overall, Masato Yashiki's works exude a unique presence through a style that pursues beauty as decorative art while inheriting the traditions of Kutani ware, and he is highly regarded as an artist who embodies "traditional techniques x modern decorative beauty." [Size] Height: 18cm Width: 15cm [Condition] Excellent condition. Please check the photos for details. The box is included. Any taxes related to international shipping must be borne by the purchaser. Occasionally, customs or the delivery company in your country may contact you for customs clearance via phone or email. Kindly ensure you are available to respond. Failure to do so may result in the parcel being returned to me, incurring additional shipping fees for reshipment. Your cooperation is greatly appreciated. I will pack the item securely, but there may be cases where the item is repackaged at customs or damaged upon arrival due to a mistake by the shipping company. If this happens, please contact me immediately. Please promptly send me a photo of the item when it arrives and a photo of the damage to the item. We will provide refunds depending on the situation.