Vintage Japanese Iga-Yaki Ikebana Vase by Akino Hirokazu | Tea Ceremony Accessory

Dimensions: 6-3/4”h x 3-0” dia.

Offered is a wonderful Iga ware vase unique because of the local clay employed in the fabrication of the piece. It demonstrates an unregulated style of beauty and is characterized by unexpected color and design changes because of the high firing temperature. Iga ware is a traditional porcelain craft from Marubashira, Iga, Mie Prefecture.

Characteristic features of this piece are the wonderful center banding with spots of red clay, and the unusual motif resembling a “tree-like broken branch” on one side. There are nine rigid sections of the gray, green-glazed surface with an unglazed base. It has a wonderful hand to the touch. Inspired and dynamic, this piece of Iga ware was created with a combination of careful planning on the part of the craftsman and his ability to give free rein to the impetuous forces of nature within the confines of the kiln. As shown in this piece it produces different effects and finishes achieved by varying the positions of the object in the kiln adding to the overall spontaneity. At Akino-san's exhibition and sale in 2001, all his pottery objects were paired with antique hand-carved rosewood stands which he felt presented his beautifully formed objects. This stand is included in this offer. The piece has an incised mark of Akino Hirokazu on the side of the piece.

The Stand: Antique decorative stands were used from ancient times to the present to celebrate and present beautiful art objects and served to bring esteemed objects into more prominent light. As with stands like this, the piece being offered is a favorite for display — This stand has a silky smooth texture, which has always been considered pleasing both to the touch and eye and is not meant to be more important than the piece for which it is presenting.

Vintage Condition: This is an exceptionally glazed vase in pristine condition: no chips, missing elements, or repairs. “As is” and retains the original craft/workmanship. Any discoloration, chipping/cracking, surface wear, or structural damage are noted; of course, there are none.