Living National Treasure Tokuda Yasokichi III Kutani Ware Ceramic Flower Vase

Maker / Brand: Tokuda Yasokichi III (Kutani-yaki) Title of Work: Living National Treasure Tokuda Yasokichi III Flower Vase, with Original Box, Kutani Ware

This exquisite flower vase (hanaire) is a masterpiece by Tokuda Yasokichi III, a revered Living National Treasure of Japan. Crafted in the distinctive Kutani-yaki tradition, this substantial piece (approx. 28cm tall) showcases the artist's celebrated Yōsai (lustrous glaze) technique, presenting a striking gradient of blues and greens in beautifully preserved condition.

Artistic & Cultural Background Kutani-yaki is a renowned Japanese porcelain style from Ishikawa Prefecture, celebrated for its vibrant overglaze enamels. Tokuda Yasokichi III (1933-2009), the third generation to bear this esteemed name, inherited the Kutani legacy while pioneering his own unique approach. He dedicated his life to researching Ko-Kutani glazes, particularly the "Aode Ko-Kutani" green-based style, and reinterpreting them, earning the prestigious title of Living National Treasure in 1997.

Design & Technique This vase exemplifies Tokuda Yasokichi III's signature Yōsai technique, a complex method of applying multiple layers of translucent glazes to achieve breathtaking depth and luminosity. Colors transition seamlessly from deep indigo at the base to vibrant turquoise and emerald green towards the shoulder, creating a mesmerizing optical effect. The glossy surface highlights the subtle variations and rich saturation of the glazes, a example to the artist's mastery.

Form & Aesthetic Qualities * Elegant Silhouette: A gracefully swelling body tapers into a slender, elongated neck, creating a harmonious and balanced form. * Luminous Glaze: The Yōsai glaze is exceptionally brilliant, reflecting light with a striking sheen that accentuates fluid color transitions. * Dynamic Color Palette: The rich spectrum of blues and greens evokes natural imagery, offering a serene yet vibrant visual experience.

Collector & Decorative Appeal * Masterpiece by a Living National Treasure: A work by one of Japan's most celebrated ceramic artists, recognized at the highest national level. * Investment-Grade Art: Highly sought after by collectors, this piece represents significant cultural heritage and a sound investment. Its excellent condition with no noticeable scratches further enhances its value. * Versatile Display: Its substantial size and striking beauty make it a striking centerpiece for any interior. It comes with its original wooden box (tomobako), original cloth (tomonuno), and artist's biography (toreki), ensuring provenance.

This exceptional vase is a must-have for knowledgeable collectors and enthusiasts of Japanese ceramics, offering both profound artistic merit and timeless decorative appeal.

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