Gold Plum and Textured Glaze Plant Pot
Created by Kutani ware artist Ishikawa Ryusei, this plant pot brings together richly colored ornamentation and a rough, bark-like glazed surface. Here, Ishikawa takes a different approach to each side, allowing the decorative traditions of Kutani ware and his experiments with materials to share the same form.
One side features a heavily textured green-gray glaze, with glimpses of gold visible through its uneven finish. On the opposite side, deep blues, greens, and reds draw on aote, a style of overglaze decoration originating in ko-Kutani that traditionally excludes red. Ishikawa departs from this palette by introducing red into the design.
Plum blossoms and sayagata, a continuous geometric pattern associated with longevity and prosperity, appear in gold using the kinsai technique. Broad gilded areas connect the different sections, while small fields of aochibu, tiny raised blue dots, are accented with bamboo motifs.
The green-gray glaze extends over the rim, visually connecting the two sides. The contrast between the rugged texture and intricate decorative details gives the pot a distinctly sculptural presence.
DETAILS
| Quantity | 1 pc |
| Size | D 12.5 cm (4.9 in) x H 9.3 cm (3.7 in) |
| Weight | 418 g (14.7 oz) |
| Material | Stoneware |
| Package Type | Wooden box |
Maker / Brand
Rooted in the visual language of Kutani ware, Ishikawa Ryusei combines techniques rarely brought together within a single vessel. Each piece passes through eight to ten firings as deep glazes, raised dots applied in regular patterns, and bold gold decoration build up across its surface, creating depth, density, and variation.
At first glance, the effect is pure excess: immediately striking, rich with detail. Given a moment of stillness, the surfaces begin to reveal more, as different techniques, textures, and layers come into view.
Crafts
Kutani ware is a pottery produced in the Kaga region of Ishikawa Prefecture, with a history spanning over 350 years. It is characterized by the heavy brilliance of the five colors of navy blue, red, purple, green, and yellow that are applied to the bold and daring lines. Its long history has evolved through the tireless efforts and enthusiasm of people who have sought innovation while maintaining tradition.
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About Artist
Musubi Gallery
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 Holder of Important Intangible Cultural Heritage, 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.
Welcome to the Gallery. Please, peruse at your leisure.
