Hagi Ware Japanese Pottery Flower Vase, 18cm, for Tea Ceremony, with Original Wooden Box

<p>Maker / Brand: Hagi-yaki Title of Work: Hagi-yaki Flower Vase / Hanaire, 18cm, with Kyobako (Original Wooden Box), Chadogu (Tea Ceremony Utensil)</p> <p>This exquisite Hagi-yaki hanaire (flower vase) embodies the classic charm of this revered pottery tradition. Crafted with Hagi's characteristic soft clay, it features a beautiful glaze landscape subtly tinged with a delicate reddish hue. While the vase itself is in excellent used condition with no noticeable scratches or chips, it comes with its kyobako (original wooden box) which shows signs of aging, including fading and stains, adding to its authentic character. Designed to enhance any space, this versatile vessel is perfect for displaying seasonal flowers in a tea ceremony setting or as an elegant accent in a Japanese-inspired interior.</p> <p>Artistic & Cultural Background Hagi-yaki, originating in Yamaguchi Prefecture, is one of Japan's most celebrated ceramic traditions, deeply intertwined with the aesthetics of the tea ceremony (chanoyu). Introduced to Japan by Korean potters in the early 17th century, Hagi ware is prized for its understated beauty, rustic warmth, and the unique phenomenon known as "Hagi no nanabake" (Hagi's seven transformations), where the glaze slowly changes color and develops a richer patina with repeated use, especially when holding tea or water.</p> <p>Design & Technique The hanaire showcases Hagi-yaki's distinctive soft clay texture, which lends a gentle, inviting feel to the piece. Its surface is adorned with a subtle, reddish-tinged glaze that creates a striking "scenery," complemented by the natural, fine kannyu (crackle) that will deepen in character over time. The elegant form is further distinguished by small, ear-like handles (mimi-tsuki) on either side, adding a touch of refined simplicity.</p> <p>Form & Aesthetic Qualities * <strong>Elegant Form:</strong> A calm, balanced shape with subtle ear-like handles, perfectly sized for both intimate tea ceremony arrangements and broader decorative use. * <strong>Evolving Texture:</strong> The soft, earthy clay is beautifully contrasted by a fine, natural kannyu (crackle) that promises to develop a unique patina and deeper aesthetic appeal with continued use. * <strong>Warm Glaze:</strong> A delicate, reddish-pink glaze creates a gentle visual landscape, characteristic of Hagi ware's unique coloration, evoking a sense of tranquility and natural beauty.</p> <p>Collector & Decorative Appeal * <strong>Tea Ceremony Authenticity:</strong> An ideal chadogu (tea ceremony utensil), its traditional form and evolving beauty make it a cherished piece for chanoyu practitioners. * <strong>Timeless Interior Accent:</strong> Its understated elegance and harmonious proportions make it a sophisticated addition to any Japanese or minimalist interior, bringing a touch of authentic Japanese craft. * <strong>Investment in Patina:</strong> Experience the renowned "Hagi no nanabake" as the vessel's glaze subtly transforms and deepens in character, becoming more unique and personal with each passing year.</p> <p>This Hagi-yaki hanaire is a perfect acquisition for collectors who appreciate the subtle beauty of wabi-sabi and the enduring legacy of Japanese ceramic artistry.</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">Good</td></tr><tr><td style="padding:4px 12px 4px 0;font-weight:bold;white-space:nowrap">Origin</td><td style="padding:4px 0">Hagi, Yamaguchi</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">7.5 × 7.5cm / サイズ感もちょうどよく、茶道具の花入としても、和のインテリアとしても素敵にお使いいただけます。共箱付きです。</td></tr></table>