Shigaraki-yaki Japanese Pottery Flower Vase with a Sculpted Handle

<p>Maker / Brand: Shigaraki-yaki Title of Work: Ceramic Vase with Handle</p> <p>This exquisite Shigaraki-yaki ceramic vase features a truly distinctive handle and a striking gradient of natural colors. Crafted from robust earthenware, it serves beautifully as a vessel for floral arrangements or as a standalone decorative art piece, embodying the rustic elegance of Japanese pottery.</p> <p>Artistic & Cultural Background Shigaraki-yaki is one of Japan's oldest and most revered ceramic traditions, originating in Shigaraki, Shiga Prefecture. Known for its rustic beauty and connection to the wabi-sabi aesthetic, Shigaraki ware is celebrated for its natural ash glazes (shizen-yu) and the rich, earthy texture (tsuchiaji) of its local clay. Its unpretentious charm has long been cherished, particularly in the context of the Japanese tea ceremony.</p> <p>Design & Technique This piece beautifully showcases the characteristic tsuchiaji (earthy texture) and shizen-yu (natural ash glaze) expressions of Shigaraki-yaki. The surface displays a stunning gradient of black, brown, and green, a result of the unique firing process. The vase's most striking feature is its distinctive handle, designed with an organic flow reminiscent of traditional bamboo craftsmanship, adding a strong visual presence.</p> <p>Form & Aesthetic Qualities * <strong>Organic Silhouette:</strong> A gracefully curved body culminates in a unique, sculptural handle, creating an arresting and balanced form. * <strong>Earthy Palette:</strong> A rich, natural gradient of black, brown, and green hues evokes the raw beauty of the earth and the transformative power of the kiln. * <strong>Rustic Texture:</strong> The tactile surface, characteristic of Shigaraki-yaki, invites touch and contemplation, highlighting the natural qualities of the clay and glaze.</p> <p>Collector & Decorative Appeal * <strong>Authentic Japanese Craftsmanship:</strong> This piece is a genuine example of Shigaraki-yaki, offering a tangible connection to one of Japan's ancient and respected ceramic traditions. * <strong>Versatile Display:</strong> Ideal for enhancing traditional Japanese interiors such as a washitsu, genkan (entranceway), or tokonoma (alcove), its timeless aesthetic also complements modern decor. * <strong>Unique Artistic Statement:</strong> The distinctive handle and natural coloration make this vase a striking focal point, whether holding flowers or displayed as a sculptural object.</p> <p>This Shigaraki-yaki vase is perfect for the knowledgeable collector who appreciates the profound beauty and rustic elegance of traditional Japanese ceramics.</p> <p>Dimensions: Height: Approximately 25 cm (9.8 inches) Maximum Diameter: Approximately 13.5 cm (5.3 inches) Weight: Approximately 950 g (2.1 lbs)</p> <p>Condition: Overall, the vase is in good condition. It was originally received as a wedding gift approximately 35 years ago and has been displayed with artificial flowers, never used with water. There is one small chip, approximately 2-3mm, located near the potter's mark on the bottom (please refer to photo 10). This does not affect its stability or display. The piece exhibits the natural patina of age and the unique individual characteristics inherent to handcrafted pottery.</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">高さ25cm / サイズ】</td></tr></table>