A Master Work by Murase Jihei III (b. 1957)
- Artist:
- Murase Jihei III (b. 1957)
- Era:
- Contemporary
- Price:
- SOLD
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Carved from the trunk of a 400 year old zelcova tree, this lovely mizusashi for tea ceremony perfectly encapsulates the traditional craftsmanship surrounding Japanese tea culture and the modern aesthetic grounded in minimalism, stillness, and timeless form. Undoubtedly one of this artist's best works, a similar piece from the same series is held by the MET and can be seen here: https://www.metmuseum.org/art/collection/search/893962
The Artisan, Murase Jihei III, was born in Tokyo in 1957 and, as might be expected considering his distinguished family lineage, has become in recent times one of Japan’s leading contemporary lacquer artists. A seventh-generation wood artisan and the third generation to bear the name Jihei, Murase succeeded to the family title in 2001 after studying sculpture at Tokyo Zokei University and joining the family lacquer studio. His practice unites woodturning, carving, and natural urushi lacquer, with each stage of production carried out under his direct hand. Rooted in tea culture and the legacy of his grandfather’s association with Kitaōji Rosanjin, Murase’s work combines functional beauty with a distinctly sculptural modern sensibility. His lacquer vessels, tea utensils, trays, and sculptural forms are celebrated for their quiet strength, tactile surfaces, and deep respect for the natural character of wood. His works are represented in major international collections including the British Museum, the Victoria and Albert Museum, the Philadelphia Museum of Art, Yale University Art Gallery, the Birmingham Museum of Art, Japan’s National Crafts Museum, and as mentioned earlier, the Metropolitan Museum of Art.
In excellent condition, this piece is 8.7 inches wide (22cm) and stands 6 inches tall including the handle of the lid (15cm). Signed on the base, it comes with its original box signed and sealed by the artist. In addition, it comes with an informational insert detailing the artist and workshop, as well as a protective wrapping cloth.
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