About the Works Artist: Kōyō Matsui 松井康陽 Title of work: Arita Ware Jar with Cobalt Blue Crystalline Glaze This work by Japanese ceramic artist Zenji Sadamatsu is an Arita ware jar adorned with a vivid cobalt crystalline glaze, distinguished by its radiant brilliance and commanding presence. The rounded, slightly flattened form conveys a sense of stability and harmony, while the narrow mouth adds a sculptural refinement. Across the surface, a deep and striking cobalt blue glaze unfolds, with crystalline formations—born from the precise control of firing temperature and duration—scattered like blossoms. These crystals reveal shifting expressions depending on the angle of light, creating a complex and captivating landscape that ranges from the profound depths of oceanic blue to translucent, ethereal layers. The artist’s signature is inscribed within the base, affirming a piece that embodies the fusion of traditional Arita ware mastery with innovative glazing expression. Sadamatsu, who has devoted himself to glaze research, showcases in this work the unique hues and crystalline patterns achieved through his exploration. More than a functional vessel, it resonates as a presence worthy of appreciation as contemporary art. Size: Diameter: approx. 26 cm Height: 17.5 cm Mouth diameter: approx. 1 cm Weight: 2195 g About the Artist Zenji Sadamatsu was born in Arita in 1948. After graduating from a technical high school, he traveled to various ceramic production centers, dedicating himself to the research and development of glazes and clay bodies. Based in Arita Town, Saga Prefecture, he is a ceramic artist working from his own kiln, “Saigama.” He continues to create works using “dawn” as his motif, honoring the solid traditions of Arita porcelain while pursuing the ever-changing possibilities of glazes such as copper red, kiln-fired streaks, tenmoku, and golden glazes. He has held solo exhibitions throughout Japan and has exhibited and won numerous prizes at events including the Japan Fine Arts Exhibition (Nitten), Nihon Togeikai Exhibition, Nikko Exhibition, Asia Craft Exhibition, Chishinkai Exhibition, and Kyushu and Yamaguchi Ceramic Exhibition. In 2011, his work “Shinmei” was selected for the 43rd Nitten. Appearance Please see photos for details. Shipping Information Items are shipped from Japan via DHL or Japan Post. A tracking number will be provided once the shipment has been dispatched. Please note that we are unable to under-declare the value of an item or mark it as a gift for shipping purposes. Obligations of the importer Import duties, taxes and fees are not included in the bid price or shipping charges. These charges are the responsibility of the buyer. Please check with your country's customs office to determine what these additional costs will be before bidding or purchasing. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation.