Monumental Japanese Brutalist Stoneware Vessel
Mid-Century Studio Pottery | Wood-Fired Stoneware | Sgraffito Decoration
Object Description:
This substantial hand-built vessel represents a masterful synthesis of traditional Japanese ceramic techniques and postwar Brutalist aesthetics. The piece features:
- A robust footed form with intentional asymmetrical balance
- Rich wood-fired stoneware body with mottled brown glaze
- Striking sgraffito (incised) surface patterning
- Accents of vivid blue glaze highlighting the carved designs
Technical Details:
Material: High-fired stoneware
Firing Method: Traditional wood kiln (noborigama or anagama)
Decoration: Sgraffito technique with oxide inlay
Glaze: Natural ash effects with intentional drips and variations
Provenance & History:
Acquired from the collection of a dedicated Japanese ceramics connoisseur who resided in Japan during the 1950s-60s, studying ikebana flower arrangement. This context suggests the vessel was likely created for both functional and artistic display purposes within the ikebana tradition.
Condition:
- very good original state
- Minor surface wear consistent with age, chips along the edge of the footing. Please refer to photos for details.
- No structural damage or restoration
- Glaze intact with desirable kiln effects
Dimensions:
Height: 14.25 inches
Width: 11 inches
Depth: 10 inches
Display Recommendations:
- As a standalone sculptural object
- For ikebana or contemporary floral arrangements
- In dialogue with Brutalist architecture or design
Monumental Japanese Brutalist Stoneware Vessel
Mid-Century Studio Pottery | Wood-Fired Stoneware | Sgraffito Decoration
Object Description:
This substantial hand-built vessel represents a masterful synthesis of traditional Japanese ceramic techniques and postwar Brutalist aesthetics. The piece features:
- A robust footed form with intentional asymmetrical balance
- Rich wood-fired stoneware body with mottled brown glaze
- Striking sgraffito (incised) surface patterning
- Accents of vivid blue glaze highlighting the carved designs
Technical Details:
Material: High-fired stoneware
Firing Method: Traditional wood kiln (noborigama or anagama)
Decoration: Sgraffito technique with oxide inlay
Glaze: Natural ash effects with intentional drips and variations
Provenance & History:
Acquired from the collection of a dedicated Japanese ceramics connoisseur who resided in Japan during the 1950s-60s, studying ikebana flower arrangement. This context suggests the vessel was likely created for both functional and artistic display purposes within the ikebana tradition.
Condition:
- very good original state
- Minor surface wear consistent with age, chips along the edge of the footing. Please refer to photos for details.
- No structural damage or restoration
- Glaze intact with desirable kiln effects
Dimensions:
Height: 14.25 inches
Width: 11 inches
Depth: 10 inches
Display Recommendations:
- As a standalone sculptural object
- For ikebana or contemporary floral arrangements
- In dialogue with Brutalist architecture or design
