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.

Details

Condition	Excellent
Material	Ceramic
Era	Unknown