Kato Toyohisa (born 1962) — Large spherical vase, Mino (Gifu), Japan

This large Japanese ceramic vase, signed Kato Toyohisa , is distinguished by its immediate sculptural presence and bold graphic style. The almost spherical form is deliberately compact and taut, with a narrow, slightly irregular opening that breaks any sense of cold symmetry. The work combines rigorous construction with a sensual quality of materiality typical of Mino ceramics from Gifu Prefecture.

The upper section is covered with a thick, glossy white glaze that is heavily cracked, its recesses and raised areas creating a mineral-like surface. This light zone transitions into drier, more granular orange and brown tones, where the firing process becomes visible. On the body, broad , matte black chevrons structure the piece and are highlighted by raised white lines applied to the surface, giving the decoration a tactile dimension. The brown background is enlivened by regular striations that reinforce the roundness of the volume and accentuate the visual tension between design, texture, and fire.

Signature and tomobako

The vase is signed under the base and kept in its original signed tomobako.

About Kato Toyohisa

Born in 1962 in Gifu Prefecture, Kato Toyohisa is part of the Mino ceramic scene, one of the great historical centers of Japanese ceramics. Coming from a family of potters and trained at the Gifu Prefectural Ceramic Research Institute under Hayashi Shōtarō , he developed a distinctive personal style early on, gaining recognition in several competitions. His work has been honored with major awards in Tajimi and Gifu, and one of his pieces was acquired by the Musée National de Céramique in Sèvres , confirming his place in the recent history of Japanese ceramics.

Dimensions

Height: 36.5 cm. Diameter: 34 cm.