Yabe Atsuro Bizen Ware Unglazed Stoneware Bud Vase with Original Box, Cloth & Biography

<p>Maker / Brand: Yabe Atsuro Title of Work: Bizen Ware Ichirinzashi by Yabe Atsuro</p> <p>This exquisite Bizen ware ichirinzashi, a single-stem vase by renowned ceramist Yabe Atsuro from Bizen City, Okayama Prefecture, showcases the distinctive unglazed beauty of Bizen ware. Its robust, high-fired texture and unique "scenery" from natural kiln effects are hallmarks of his craftsmanship. Complete with its tomobako, tomonuno, and rireki, this piece represents authentic Japanese artistry.</p> <p>Artistic & Cultural Background Bizen ware, one of Japan's oldest ceramic traditions, originated in medieval Okayama Prefecture. Known for its unglazed, high-fired stoneware, Bizen pottery relies on the natural interaction of clay, fire, and ash within the kiln to produce unique surface patterns and earthy tones. This ancient technique results in pieces deeply connected to wabi-sabi aesthetics.</p> <p>Design & Technique This ichirinzashi exemplifies the classic Bizen ware technique of yakishime, where clay is fired at extremely high temperatures without glaze. The result is a firm, tactile surface revealing the clay's natural character. striking visual effects, known as yōhen, are born from the unpredictable dance of ash and flame, creating subtle color variations and patterns unique to each piece. Its form, reminiscent of a traditional tokkuri (sake bottle), offers a classic yet elegant silhouette.</p> <p>Form & Aesthetic Qualities * <strong>Shape:</strong> A graceful tokkuri-gata (sake bottle shape) with a slender neck and gently swelling body, ideal for a single flower or small branch. * <strong>Texture:</strong> The unglazed surface boasts a rich, earthy texture, firm to the touch, inviting contemplation of its natural origins. * <strong>Visual Appeal:</strong> Displays a striking interplay of natural kiln effects (yōhen), with subtle shifts in color and tone that evoke the raw beauty of earth and fire.</p> <p>Collector & Decorative Appeal * <strong>Authentic Provenance:</strong> Accompanied by its tomobako, tomonuno, and rireki, ensuring authenticity and enhancing its collectible value. * <strong>Versatile Elegance:</strong> Perfect for a traditional Japanese tea ceremony, adding wabi-sabi to any interior decor, or as a distinguished addition to a ceramic art collection. * <strong>Renowned Artist:</strong> A desirable work by Yabe Atsuro, a respected ceramist whose pieces are sought after for their quality and artistic integrity.</p> <h3>Details</h3> <table style="border-collapse:collapse;width:100%"><tr><td style="padding:4px 12px 4px 0;font-weight:bold;white-space:nowrap">Condition</td><td style="padding:4px 0">Excellent</td></tr><tr><td style="padding:4px 12px 4px 0;font-weight:bold;white-space:nowrap">Origin</td><td style="padding:4px 0">Bizen, Okayama</td></tr><tr><td style="padding:4px 12px 4px 0;font-weight:bold;white-space:nowrap">Material</td><td style="padding:4px 0">Ceramic</td></tr><tr><td style="padding:4px 12px 4px 0;font-weight:bold;white-space:nowrap">Era</td><td style="padding:4px 0">Unknown</td></tr><tr><td style="padding:4px 12px 4px 0;font-weight:bold;white-space:nowrap">Dimensions</td><td style="padding:4px 0">高さ 18cm / 幅 7.5cm / サイズ（約）：高さ 18cm × 幅 7.5cm</td></tr></table>