Living National Treasure Kinjo Jiro Tsuboya-yaki Fish Motif Round Vase, Okinawa, with Original Box

Maker / Brand: Kaneshiro Jiro (Living National Treasure) / Tsuboya-yaki Title of Work: Living National Treasure Kaneshiro Jiro's Tsuboya-yaki Fish Motif Round Jar with Original Box

This exquisite ceramic vessel is a masterful creation by Kaneshiro Jiro, a revered Living National Treasure of Japan. Crafted in the distinctive Tsuboya-yaki style of Okinawa, this charming piece features a dynamic fish motif and comes complete with its original wooden box (kyobako). Standing approximately 12cm tall, it is versatile enough to serve as an elegant flower vase or a traditional tokkuri sake flask.

Artistic & Cultural Background Tsuboya-yaki pottery originates from the Ryukyu Kingdom (present-day Okinawa) and boasts a rich history dating back to the 17th century. Known for its robust forms, earthy glazes, and often whimsical decorative motifs, Tsuboya-yaki embodies the unique cultural spirit of Okinawa. Kaneshiro Jiro (1919-2004) was a pivotal figure in preserving and elevating this tradition, becoming the first Okinawan potter to be designated a Living National Treasure, celebrated for his iconic fish designs.

Design & Technique The vessel showcases Kaneshiro Jiro's signature "gyomon" (fish motif), rendered with bold, expressive brushstrokes in dark outlines and warm, earthy tones against a lighter, natural clay body. The decoration is applied under a rich, translucent glaze that enhances the texture and depth of the design. This technique, characteristic of Tsuboya-yaki, results in a piece that feels both rustic and refined, capturing the vitality of marine life.

Form & Aesthetic Qualities * Shape: A gracefully rounded, bulbous body tapers to a slender neck and a subtly flared rim, creating a harmonious and inviting silhouette. * Texture: The smooth, glossy glaze provides a pleasant tactile experience, while the underlying brushwork hints at the handcrafted nature of the piece. * Visual Appeal: The earthy palette, combined with the lively fish motif, evokes a sense of natural beauty and Okinawan charm, making it a striking focal point.

Collector & Decorative Appeal * Master's Legacy: Acquire a piece by Kaneshiro Jiro, a Living National Treasure whose work is highly sought after for its artistic merit and historical significance. * Cultural Authenticity: Own an authentic example of Tsuboya-yaki, representing the unique pottery heritage of Okinawa and the Ryukyu Islands. * Versatile Elegance: Perfect for displaying a single bloom, serving sake, or simply as a standalone sculptural object, adding a touch of Japanese artistry to any setting.

This exceptional piece is ideal for collectors who appreciate the profound artistry and cultural narrative embedded in Japan's traditional crafts.

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