Haiyūsai Lidded Tsubo Jar by Ikai Yūichi

Description

Kyoto native Ikai Yūichi has trained under the late Shimizu Uichi (1926-2004) who, in 1985, was awarded the title of Living National Treasure for his outstanding work in ceramic making.  And it is from his sensei that Ikai learned the secrets to coaxing subtle hues and fluid effects from the oldest and most rudimentary of all glazes - hai, or ash.

Now an established ceramic artist in his own right, Ikai has developed a unique approach to pottery making over the years.  That is, to intervene as little as possible between nature and the work itself.  As a result, any sort of mechanization to his craft is minimized, or avoided altogether, at every step of the creative process.  His glazes are unfiltered and additive free, made from a simple mixture of water and straw, oak, or cedar ash.  The clays he uses are grainy and unprocessed, and forming tools are often just the broken end of a tree branch.  Imperfection and asymmetry are emphasized over mechanical precision or any contrived embellishments.

This lidded tsubo jar has the kind of soothing, organic tone for which Ikai Yuichi's works are renowned.  It is done in an ash glaze (haiyū) made from oak.  While cooling in the kiln, the natural iron content in the wood appears as darker specs around the piece.  A silver overglaze on the underside of the lid adds a bit of reserved opulence.

The piece is tall enough to accommodate larger flower arrangements.  It commands equal attention, however, all on its own and makes the ideal centerpiece for any Japanese-influenced interior or modern décor.

A wooden presentation box will be custom made to order and signed by the artist.  Delivery time for this item is 2 weeks.

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