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. Building on 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 through 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 tinted leaves to the unglazed surface of the porcelain, a method known as the “leaf technique.” This approach allows for the creation of delicate and complex patterns, imitating the veins of leaves to form simple decorations or landscapes.

The vase presented here is a striking example of this technique. The landscape scene adorning the vase captures the very essence of Arita landscapes, with distant hills painted in pale shades and others, closer, depicted in greater density and detail. 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 pushed 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 sensitivity.

30 x 27cm approximately 

Box and exhibition panel