Japanese Celadon Tea Bowl by great Aoki Ryūzan

Rare Japanese Celadon Tea Bowl, which was made by one of the greatest Japanese potters of the 20th century, Ryūzan Aoki (1926-2008).

The seal of the potter is stamped on the bottom. The original wooden box with the signature of the potter & his profile are also included.

Aoki Ryūzan was born in Arita as the eldest son of a porcelain merchant. In 1951, he graduated as a Nihonga-style painter from Tama Art College. Initially, he was a teacher at various schools until his father called him back because he needed him at the company.

Aoki then built his own kiln and began producing ceramics.

Aoki was one of those potters who did not emphasize the 'handmade, unround', but aimed for the perfect pottery. He exhibited at the 'Nitten' and became a member of the supporting association in 1982. In 1991, he was awarded by the Academy of Arts for his work 'Kosa no mai' (胡沙の舞), 'Dance of a Dust Cloud'. In 1992, he became a member of the Academy.

In 1999, Aoki was honored as a person of special cultural merit, and in 2005 he was awarded the Order of Culture. The order has one class only, and may be awarded to men and women for contributions to Japan's art, literature or culture; recipients of the order also receive an annuity for life. The order is conferred by the Emperor of Japan in person on Culture Day (November 3) each year.

His eldest son, Aoki Kiyotaka (青木 清高; 1957-2015) ran the pottery after Ryūzan's death.

Size: 6,1 cm height x 16,2 cm in diameter.