Hirado Chrysanthemum and Running Water Flower Vase

This porcelain vase takes the form of a gently rounded gourd, with chrysanthemums rising from its upper half and flowing water painted across the lower half. The chrysanthemums are created using the Hirado kikka-kazari technique, emerging from the porcelain in layers of fine relief. Each flower is individually formed, giving every bloom its own shape and rhythm. As the porcelain is fired, the once-sharp creases of the petals soften, rounding the contours of each blossom.

The lower half of the vase depicts flowing water, painted in sometsuke blue and white. The brushwork moves across the smooth surface in fluid, continuous lines, presenting a clear contrast with the textured, raised chrysanthemums above. Blue leaves among the chrysanthemums repeat the tones of the running water below, creating a subtle connection between the two sections.

*Piece I and Piece II share the same design, with slight variations in appearance as each was crafted at a different time.

Nakazato Ichiro

Nakazato Ichiro, the 17th-generation master of the Hirado Kohsyo Danemon Kiln, stands as a guardian of Hirado chrysanthemum fine engraving technique and adds his subtle innovations while honoring this ancient craft. 

He has dedicated his lifetime to mastering and preserving the technique, bringing forth ethereal, three-dimensional blooms that seem to dance upon the delicate white surface of Mikawachi ware. His works transcend mere technical excellence, revealing not only the profound beauty of traditional craftsmanship but also offering glimpses into the soul of an artisan whose life has become inseparable from his art.

Mikawachi Ware

Mikawachi ware, also known as Hirado ware, is a pottery made in Sasebo City, Nagasaki Prefecture, Japan. Known for its translucent white porcelain, it was highly popular in Europe during the trend toward Japanese crafts in the West in the 20th century. Mikawachi ware is remarkable for its delicate modeling techniques that push the limits of porcelain, such as openwork and relief carving, and for its beautiful painting that looks like a single piece of art.