Morikin Grape Pattern Aochibu Drawstring Bag Shaped Vase

Employing the aochibu technique, this vase features the delicate placement of blue dots forming intricate swirl patterns that gracefully adorn the vessel's surface. The intentional blank space surrounding the pattern allows the design to emerge starkly against the black, drawing the viewer's attention to the precision and vibrancy of each dot. This design choice highlights the meticulous craftsmanship and creative vision behind the vase, eliciting admiration and contemplation.

This vase is shaped like a drawstring bag, featuring one of the traditional Japanese patterns known as “the collection of treasures.” During Japan's Heian period (794 CE–1185 CE), drawstring bags were used to store valuable items. The vase's elegant and smooth lines not only reflect beauty but also symbolize wealth and good fortune.The addition of platinum and gold leaves brings an opulent depth to the vase, with the platinum's subtle sheen and gold's radiant sparkle creating a luxurious interplay of metallic textures. This blend of precious metals against the black backdrop not only catches the light but also captivates the gaze, making the vase a focal point of any room.

Nakada Kingyoku's work embodies Rimpa Artistry with its dignified elegance and graceful beauty. Harmonizing the interplay between space and miniature craftsmanship, modern sensibilities with meticulous techniques, through the artistry of blue dots and raised gold. His work, not only pays homage to his inherited heritage but also introduces innovations to elevate the aochibu style.

Nakada Kingyoku is a master of the morikin and aochibu painting style. The morikin "raised gold" technique breathes life into patterns with special paints, raised like tiny islands in a sea of porcelain, only to be crowned with gold. The aochibu "blue dots", are delicately dotted on the canvas using the icchin tool, each dot a showcase of precision and elegance.

Since its inception, MUSUBI KILN has strived to introduce the world to the finest traditional crafts from masters all around Japan.

Here, in the Gallery, we seek to showcase the highest echelon of traditional techniques, passed down through generations. You can discover works from masters who have not only perfected those methods, but added their imagination to innovate the craft even further.

Some of these masters have even been named Living National Treasures, a title bestowed upon them by the Japanese government to formally recognize their contribution to crafts and culture — thereby cementing their legacy and making them an important part of art history.

Each piece is meticulously handcrafted over many months to create a timeless treasure that's unlike any other. And when it's in your home, you, too, will become part of that history.