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Japan, Large Blue and White exhibition vase by Fuji Shumei

About the Item

This blue and white porcelain vase is a representative work by Fujii Shumei. Born in Arita in 1945, Fujii began his career as an apprentice in a pottery workshop at the age of 15. In 1964, he exhibited his creations for the first time at the Nitten exhibition, where he won his first prize the following year. Buoyed by this success, he opened his own kiln in Arita in 1977, which he named the “Shumei Kiln,” marking a turning point in his career. Fujii Shumei quickly distinguished himself with his talent and originality, winning numerous awards at prestigious exhibitions such as the Japan Ceramic Art Exhibition and the Kyushu Yamaguchi Ceramic Exhibition, as well as the Minister of Education Prize. His work is characterized by a unique technique: he decorates his pieces by applying dyed leaves to the unglazed surface of the porcelain, a method known as the “leaf technique.” This approach allows for delicate and intricate patterns, mimicking the veins of leaves to form simple decorations or landscapes. The vase presented here is a striking example of this technique. The landscape scene that adorns the vase captures the essence of Arita’s landscapes, with distant hills painted in pale shades and others, closer, depicted in a denser and more detailed manner. The branches and leaves blend harmoniously to form a forest in the foreground, a subtle natural panorama. His works are now held in prestigious public collections, including the British Museum. Although his work is deeply rooted in tradition, he has been able to push the boundaries of his art, combining heritage and innovation. This vase, exhibited at a Nitten exhibition, as evidenced by its wooden panel, embodies both Fujii Shumei’s technical mastery and artistic sensibility. Signed, withe original signed box and wood label from the exhibition
  • Dimensions:
    Height: 11.82 in (30 cm)Diameter: 10.63 in (27 cm)
  • Materials and Techniques:
  • Period:
  • Date of Manufacture:
    1980
  • Condition:
  • Seller Location:
    PARIS, FR
  • Reference Number:
    1stDibs: LU6491241696362

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