browse these categories for related items...
Directory: Antiques: Regional Art: Asian: Japanese: Stoneware: Pre 1700: Item # 1484215

Please refer to our stock # TRC231103 when inquiring.

Click to view additional online photographs

Kyoto Ceramics and Fine Art
View Seller Profile
Kamigamo District
Kyoto, Japan


Guest Book

During Japan's Momoyama period, spanning from the late 16th to the early 17th century, Bizen pottery flourished, producing exquisite pieces such as this symmetrical and elegant flower vase. Crafted from locally sourced Bizen clay, this vase embodies simplicity and understated elegance. Its unassuming form showcases the natural beauty of the clay, enhanced by a delicate ash glaze. The texture and shape evoke a sense of rustic charm, reflecting the profound harmony between human creativity and the organic world. Now many centuries old, this piece continues to serves not only as a functional display piece, but also as a symbol of the enduring legacy and cultural significance of Japanese ceramic history.

Luckily, thanks to the diligence and passion of a researcher by the name of Okada Sōei (1909-1987) we can be assured that this vase is authentic and indeed a product of the Momoyama period (400-500 years old). Having written a total of nine books on the subject and amassing a considerable private collection during his lifetime, Okada was one of the preeminent authorities during his lifetime not only on works deriving from Japan but also on those deriving from China and Korea. The writing on the box indicates that this is a “ko-Bizen” (old Bizen) “shirinaga Hana-ire” (long bottomed vase) from the “Momoyama jidai” (Momoyama period). If you are interested in purchasing a large format hard-cover book by Okada we have an extra copy available. Also, though there is not very much information available in English, you can find a 1974 translated interview here to open a window onto Okada’s views and philosophy regarding ancient pottery (starts from page 2): https://en.sixancientkilns.jp/views/uploads/2020/03/98842089a29fe2ea4770a80647d89ad2.pdf

In fine antique condition, this piece is 8 inches in diameter at its widest point (20cm) and stands 10 inches tall (26cm). It comes with a box provided by distinguished researcher, author, and collector Okada Sōei that provides specific details regarding the origin of this artwork. Together in the box is a vintage wrapping cloth custom made for this piece.

*** International shipping and insurance is included in the price.