Koga Muryo Shinshu Iwaido-yaki Nanban Style Eared Ceramic Flower Vase

<p>Maker / Brand: Shinshu Iwaido-yaki, Koga Muryo Title of Work: Nanban Mimitsuki Hanaire (Vase with Ears in Nanban Style) by Koga Muryo</p> <p>This exquisite Nanban Mimitsuki Hanaire, or "vase with ears in Nanban style," is a striking creation by the esteemed artist Koga Muryo from the Shinshu Iwaido-yaki kiln. Presented as a new and unused piece, it embodies rustic elegance and a profound connection to traditional Japanese aesthetics. Standing 23cm tall with a 13cm maximum diameter, its commanding yet understated presence makes it a distinctive addition to any collection.</p> <p>Artistic & Cultural Background The term "Nanban" (Southern Barbarian) in Japanese ceramics refers to a style influenced by foreign traders, particularly from Southeast Asia, starting in the 16th century. It often characterizes unglazed or minimally glazed stoneware, celebrated for its earthy textures and natural kiln effects. This raw, unrefined beauty deeply connects with the wabi-sabi aesthetic – an appreciation of imperfection, transience, and simplicity. Shinshu Iwaido-yaki continues this tradition of handcrafted ceramics.</p> <p>Design & Technique Koga Muryo's Nanban Mimitsuki Hanaire showcases a masterful application of this rustic style. The vase features a rich, dark, textured surface, likely achieved through specific firing techniques that encourage natural ash deposits or a subtle, earthy glaze, creating a mottled, organic appearance. The distinctive "ears" (mimitsuki) on either side are not merely decorative but harken back to ancient vessel forms, adding sculptural and historical dimension.</p> <p>Form & Aesthetic Qualities * <strong>Organic Silhouette:</strong> A gracefully swelling body tapers to a slender neck and subtly flared mouth (4cm diameter), balanced by a stable base (8.8cm diameter). * <strong>Earthy Texture:</strong> The surface boasts a tactile, unrefined texture, inviting touch and reflecting the natural elements of its creation. * <strong>Wabi-Sabi Charm:</strong> Its understated color palette and natural imperfections evoke serene beauty and timelessness, characteristic of wabi-sabi philosophy.</p> <p>Collector & Decorative Appeal * <strong>Artist's Craftsmanship:</strong> A unique, handcrafted work by Koga Muryo,</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">Material</td><td style="padding:4px 0">Wood</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23cm / 口径4cm</td></tr></table>