Sakamoto Toshito Iga Tabimakura Flower Vase, Iga & Shigaraki Ware

<p>Maker / Brand: Sakamoto Toshito Title of Work: Iga Tabimakura Hanaire</p> <p>This magnificent Iga-yaki vase, a "Tabimakura Hanaire" by Sakamoto Toshito, embodies the rugged beauty and dynamic spirit of traditional Japanese ceramics. Its powerful presence is defined by bold wheel marks, intentional distortion, and dramatic kiln effects, creating a unique and striking vessel.</p> <p>Artistic & Cultural Background Iga-yaki, from Mie Prefecture, is one of Japan's oldest ceramic traditions, often associated with the rustic aesthetic of the tea ceremony. Known for its robust, iron-rich clay and high-temperature firing, Iga ware is celebrated for its natural ash glazes (shizen-yu) and striking kiln transformations (yohen). The "Tabimakura" (travel pillow) form is a classic shape for flower vases.</p> <p>Design & Technique Sakamoto Toshito's artistry is evident in the vase's dynamic surface. Gentle potter's wheel marks create rhythmic texture, complemented by deliberate distortions. Vigorous spatula work adds powerful accents, while dramatic natural ash glaze (yu-dare) cascades down the body. The interplay of these elements with unpredictable kiln effects (yohen) results in a landscape of raw, untamed beauty.</p> <p>Form & Aesthetic Qualities * <strong>Shape:</strong> Classic Tabimakura form, cylindrical yet intentionally irregular, evoking natural grace. * <strong>Texture:</strong> Tactile, with visible wheel marks, bold spatula impressions, and the rich, often crackled texture of natural glaze, which may include natural crazing (kannyu). * <strong>Visual Appeal:</strong> Commanding presence showcasing earthy tones, shimmering ash glaze, and unique kiln "scenery," embodying wabi-sabi.</p> <p>Collector & Decorative Appeal * <strong>Artistic Merit:</strong> A superb work by Sakamoto Toshito (b. 1960), a leading contemporary Iga-yaki artist and third-generation successor of Iga Nishiyama Kiln. * <strong>Authenticity:</strong> Complete with its original wooden box (kyobako), protective cloth (kyobako), and artist's note (shiori), ensuring provenance. * <strong>Timeless Elegance:</strong> A powerful statement piece, exquisite for ikebana or any floral arrangement, adding profound Japanese aesthetic to any interior.</p> <p>This exceptional Iga-yaki vase is perfect for the knowledgeable collector of Japanese ceramic art.</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">Shigaraki, Shiga</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20.9 cm / サイズ　約　径11.8×高20.9 cm</td></tr></table>