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Japanese antique Bizen ware vase / 15th-16th century / Wabi-sabi vase/Tsubo

$1,300
£986.53
€1,129.66
CA$1,847.39
A$2,010.66
CHF 1,055.58
MX$24,291.71
NOK 13,248.68
SEK 12,491.93
DKK 8,432.80

About the Item

This Bizen ware jar was fired in the Bizen region of Okayama Prefecture. Bizen ware is one of Japan's Six Ancient Kilns and is known as one of the oldest pottery styles in Japan. Its history dates back to the late Heian period, and its appeal lies in its unique texture, achieved by firing at high temperatures without glaze. This piece was fired during the Muromachi period (c. 1400-1500), predating the Edo period and truly retaining the charm of old Bizen. The overall firing color is the deep brown characteristic of Bizen ware, and a thin layer of decorative clay is applied to the top to give it a smooth texture. Furthermore, straw ash naturally blended during the firing process, creating a beautiful, deep-green natural glaze with a yellowish tint that spreads beautifully around the shoulders. This natural glaze is particularly prized among old Bizen ware, changing its lustrous appearance depending on the light, exuding a timeless elegance and dignity. Four small semicircular rings are attached to the shoulders. This design is characteristic of old Bizen vases, and is thought to have served as a means of fastening them with ropes or strings, or as decoration. The Japanese art book "Bizen Ware Masterpiece Illustrated Guide" lists vases of a similar era and shape to this one, further confirming its value. It is believed to have originally been used as a container for storing plant seeds. In modern times, it exudes a striking presence as a vase for arranging branches or dried flowers, or even as an art object on its own. However, there is a crack at the bottom (detailed image 16), which may cause water to leak if poured directly into the vases. Therefore, if using water, please place a separate container inside. While there is some minor flaking in one part of the semicircular ring due to aging (detailed image 12), there is no major damage, and this Muromachi-period Bizen vases remain in excellent condition. With its beautiful 360-degree firing color and glaze, this piece blends seamlessly into Japanese spaces as well as modern interiors and art galleries. Placed against a simple background, the piece's design and the profound depth of its age will stand out, elevating the overall elegance of the space. This is truly a masterpiece of pottery that we highly recommend for appreciation. Size: Approx. 34.2cm diameter x 40.5cm height Weight: 9.85kg Item number:po369 【We mainly sell old Japanese items, but also items from around the world. We have seen tens of thousands of items so far. Using that experience, we list appealing items here. This is something we can do because of our long experience. If you are looking for something special, we encourage you to purchase it on our site.】
  • Dimensions:
    Height: 15.95 in (40.5 cm)Diameter: 13.47 in (34.2 cm)
  • Style:
    Other (Of the Period)
  • Materials and Techniques:
  • Place of Origin:
  • Period:
  • Date of Manufacture:
    15th-16th century
  • Condition:
    Repaired: There is a crack at the bottom (detailed image 16). It appears that the crack was filled in the past to prevent leakage, but water still seeps through.
  • Seller Location:
    Sammu-shi, JP
  • Reference Number:
    1stDibs: LU5487246270392

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