Eiraku Jizen (Eiraku Kōichi), "Tsukikage" vase in gold and silver decoration

Large, flattened vertical vase, built on a rectangular base, by Eiraku Jizen, also known by his personal name Eiraku Kōichi. This unusual, almost architectural silhouette gives the piece a very strong frontal presence. The constricted opening at the top extends this tension between stability and slenderness, while the surface develops a vast decoration rhythmic with curved bands in black, white, reddish brown, gold, and silver.

The highly refined decoration is based on the superposition of undulating lines that cross the piece like moving reflections. Gold dominates without heaviness, enlivened by the contrasts of black and white, and produces an effect of changing light rather than a simple applied decoration. The title inscribed on the tomobako, Tsukikage – 月影, "moon shadow," aptly clarifies this research: the composition evokes less a descriptive image than a luminous, almost atmospheric perception.

The signed tomobako bears the inscription 金銀彩色花入 月影 紘一造, which can be translated as "flower vase in gold and silver polychrome decoration, 'Tsukikage', made by Kōichi." The piece is signed under the base.

Born in Kyoto in 1944, Eiraku Jizen belongs to one of the most prestigious lineages of Kyoto ceramics. Born under the name Eiraku Kōichi, he became Eiraku Zengorō XVII in 1998, before resuming the name Jizen after passing on the family title in 2020. Biographies published by Joan B. Mirviss Ltd. and by the Kyoto Kogei Bijutsu Sakka Kyokai recall his mastery of the great decorative traditions of Kyoto, particularly kinrande, as well as his connection to the refined heritage of the Eiraku workshops, long associated with tea culture.

This work particularly well reflects this dual belonging: rooted in the history of decorated Kyoto ceramics, it also asserts a more personal sensibility, based on the construction of form and a very free use of linear rhythms and metallic glints. With its sculptural presence and luminous decoration, this vase will appeal equally to a collector of Japanese ceramics and to an interior seeking a strong and refined piece.

Dimensions: height 47 cm; width 32 cm; depth 8.8 cm.