Large hanaire stoneware vase, Japan, 1985, by Murata Tōseki (村田陶石)

This large Japanese stoneware vase is distinguished by its deeply engraved decoration, carved directly into the stone with an almost sculptural force. The incised lines intersect and overlap in broad areas, and the whole clearly evokes bamboo through the interplay of stems and leaves suggested by the clean cut of the edges. The surface, predominantly dark brown, is marked with greenish hues and ochre streaks that suggest the effects of ash and kiln firing.

The vase is preserved with its original tomobako, bearing the artist's inscription and seal, as well as a certificate of selection for the 24th Japan Contemporary Arts and Crafts Exhibition (日本現代工芸美術展), held from March 24 to April 4, 1985, at the Tokyo Metropolitan Museum of Art. An old label is also affixed to the base, bearing the name Murata Tōseki and an address in Ayabe (Kyoto Prefecture).

Biography

Murata Tōseki (村田陶石), whose given name was Murata Hiro-michi (村田弘道), was a monk and temple abbot in Ayabe, Kyoto Prefecture. His work is frequently associated with the world of tea, encompassing both utilitarian and ceremonial pieces, making this large-format work particularly interesting within his oeuvre. He died on April 27, 2001, at the age of 75 (born around 1925–1926). His work is represented at the Brooklyn Museum in New York, which holds one of his pieces ( Bottle Base , c. 1980).

Dimensions
Diameter: 32 cm
Height: approx. 37 cm