This is a distinguished Bizen ware (備前焼) flower vase crafted by Japanese ceramic artist Koken Hibata (日幡光顕). The piece exemplifies the natural beauty and unpredictability of traditional Bizen-yaki, a form of unglazed high-fired stoneware originating from Okayama Prefecture. Formed with a tear-drop shaped body and a slender neck, this vase presents a harmonious balance between refined shape and organic surface texture. The natural firing process in a wood-burning kiln creates subtle variations in tone, ranging from earthy reddish-browns to ash-grey and golden tones, with striking kiln effects such as goma (natural ash glaze) and hi-iro (fire markings). These effects are not artificially controlled, but rather born from the interaction between fire, clay, and ash, making each Bizen piece one-of-a-kind. This particular vase displays excellent yohen (kiln transformation), especially around the lower body where ash deposits have fused into the surface. It is signed by the artist on the base, and comes complete with its original tomobako (signed wooden box), yellow protective cloth, and an artist’s biography leaflet, adding further context and provenance. About Bizen ware (備前焼) Bizen ware is one of the oldest and most revered forms of Japanese pottery, with a history that stretches back over 1,000 years. Originating in Bizen, Okayama Prefecture, it is known for its distinctive reddish-brown color, achieved without the use of glaze. Instead, the unique surface effects are created naturally through long, high-temperature firings in wood-burning kilns. Because no glaze is applied, the final appearance of each piece is determined by the interaction of fire, ash, and clay — resulting in natural kiln effects such as goma (sesame-like ash spots), hi-iro (flame markings), and yohen (kiln transformation). Each work is truly one-of-a-kind. Traditionally valued for its durability and rustic aesthetic, Bizen ware continues to be highly prized among collectors and tea ceremony practitioners for its subtle beauty and spiritual depth. It is also recognized as an Important Intangible Cultural Property of Japan. About Koken Hibata (日幡光顕) Koken Hibata was a Japanese Bizen-ware potter and local historian from Ibe, Bizen City in Okayama Prefecture. Born into the family of the chief priest of Ibe Amatsu Shrine, he grew up surrounded by the region’s long ceramic tradition. In 1960 he inherited the historic Tenjin kiln and fully entered the world of pottery. While serving as director of the Bizen Community Center, he received a commendation from the Japanese Minister of Education; in 1970 he left this post to devote himself entirely to ceramics. Hibata became a regular member of the Japan Kōgei Association (Nihon Kogeikai) after repeated success at the Japan Traditional Art Crafts Exhibition, and he was officially recognized as a nationally designated Traditional Craftsman. He received multiple major awards, including the Minister of Education Prize and the Okayama Governor’s Prize, and was honored as an Okayama Prefectural Education and Culture Distinguished Contributor. As a Bizen-ware artist and researcher, Hibata specialized in refined everyday vessels—tea wares, sake cups, flower vases and jars—valued for their quiet forms, subtle kiln variations and natural ash surfaces that express the character of Bizen clay. His deep knowledge of regional history led him to publish several books on Bizen ware, including studies of historic Bizen masters and guides to appreciating Bizen ceramics, and he was widely known as an authority on the tradition as well as a leading 20th-century maker. Shipping / Policy Carefully packaged and shipped from Japan by Japan Post or DHL with tracking. If you purchase multiple items, combined shipping is available. Please contact us if needed. Import duties, VAT (or equivalent consumption tax), and any other fees are the responsibility of the buyer. Guarantee Our shop is a licensed antiques dealer in Japan. We guarantee the authenticity of this work.