A Muromachi Period Ash Glazed Large Bizen Pot - Certified
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- Era:
- Muromachi
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Estimated to be 500-600 years old, this extraordinary work of Bizen pottery would have been fashioned in an “ana-gama” or a rudimentary dugout kiln often placed at the side of a hill. While modern Bizen pottery tends towards smooth surfaces, regular shapes, and evenly distributed or gradated glazes; by contrast, this piece is rather wild in appearance, with a variety of colors ranging from copper green, reddish ochre, and sandy brown. The shape is erratic, and while it maintains an overall harmony and balance, it is highly asymmetrical. Near the base is a cross pattern, left by the potter to identify their work. Best displayed and viewed in low light, museum, or gallery lighting, this piece is very atmospheric and conjures a sense of stillness and contemplation.
On the side of the exceptionally well-crafted box is a label placed there by Katsura Matasaburo (1901-1986) one of the leading experts of his time on ancient pottery from Japan’s 6 historic kilns as well as those from Korea and China. Originally a school teacher, Katsura became profoundly interested in folklore and ethnology which would later lead him to take up an interest in traditional ceramics. After many years studying ancient kilns (some through excavation), potting styles, inscriptions, and potting marks, he settled on old Bizen-ware as his main passion—writing a number of books and scholarly articles down through the years while also amassing a considerable private collection.
In fine antique condition, this on-of-a-kind Muromachi period pot (1336 - 1573) is 13.4 inches at its widest point (34cm) and stands 19 inches tall (48cm). As mentioned above, the storage box is of exceptionally high quality and inside the vase is wrapped in a luxurious green protective cloth. We were told that this piece is featured in an old book on Bizen pottery but thus far have not been able to locate the publication. Possibly directly from Matasaburo’s own collection, it seems someone with a deep love for Bizen pottery went through quite a lot of effort to preserve this piece for posterity. Also, while his certifications typically contain detailed information such as dimensions etc... this one seems to be more of a personal note attached only for identification purposes.
*** International shipping and insurance included in the price. For this work in particular, due weight and shipping specifications, this accounts for an appreciable percentage of the overall cost.
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