About the Works Artist: Mutsuko Sugimoto 杉本 睦子 Title of work: Shigaraki flower vase 信楽花入 This piece is a traditional Shigaraki flower vase created by the contemporary Japanese ceramic artist, Atsuko Sugimoto. It is a unique work that beautifully showcases the delicate sensibilities of a female artist. The vase was fired in a wood-burning kiln, resulting in natural ash glaze and “koge” effects. Its tall, slender neck and rounded body are characteristic features, and a green pool of glaze—naturally formed during firing—glistens on the surface. The overall earthy texture displays a variety of expressions depending on the viewing angle. The base bears the artist’s signature, making this an original, one-of-a-kind item. Shigaraki ware is a traditional Japanese pottery produced mainly in Shigaraki Town, Koka City, Shiga Prefecture, and is known as one of Japan’s Six Ancient Kilns. Its origins trace back to the Nara period, when Emperor Shomu ordered roof tiles to be made for the Shigaraki Palace, and its use evolved through history with tea ceramics in the Muromachi era, storage jars and household wares in the Edo period, and the popularity of hibachi in the Meiji era. The distinctive clay, rich in feldspar, creates a strong and slightly coarse texture ideal for large-scale and thick pottery, while the firing process results in unique “hi-iro” (natural reddish hues) and ash glazes, giving each piece rustic character and warmth. Shigaraki ware encompasses a range of products from tea utensils and planters to tanuki figurines, which are especially famous nationwide as symbols of good fortune, reflecting the region’s long tradition, simple and natural charm, and the appeal of “wabi-sabi,” or finding beauty in imperfection. Size: Mouth diameter: 7 cm Width: approx. 17.5 cm Height: 24.8 cm Weight: 1403 g About the Artist Mutsuko Sugimoto is a Japanese ceramic artist based in Tsuchiyama, Kōka City, Shiga Prefecture. Working within the tradition of Shigaraki ware, she has established herself as an active and respected figure both in Japan and abroad. Her artistic style is distinguished by an elegance and refinement that resonate with the natural environment of Shigaraki. Sugimoto is particularly devoted to the elusive beauty of hi-iro—the scarlet tones created by the firing process—pursuing this expression with both passion and patience. The surfaces of her works reveal the interplay between earth and fire: sometimes serene and subtle, sometimes vigorous and dynamic. Through these contrasts, her bowls and vases evoke both warmth and tranquility, yet carry a distinctly contemporary sensibility. As a female ceramicist, Sugimoto brings a unique perspective to the tradition of Shigaraki. Her works move beyond mere functionality to embody a quiet dignity and a meditative depth, suggesting harmony with nature while asserting their individuality as works of art. Her practice consistently seeks to merge inherited tradition with her own artistic vision, expanding the expressive potential of Shigaraki ware. Since the mid-1980s she has presented solo exhibitions in Japan, and more recently she has expanded her reach internationally, participating in exhibitions and art fairs overseas. Her works have been recognized by collectors and galleries for their balance of strength and grace, and she is regarded as an artist who connects the essential beauty of Shigaraki with the sensibilities of the present day. 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.