Tall Sazameku Cascade

This hand-shaped piece extends the sculptural language of the Sazameku series through a taller, more vertical silhouette. Rooted in traditional Kutani glazing techniques, Yamaura Saori carries forward the dynamic cascade expression while altering the visual proportion.

Deep green and white layers descend with greater length across the surface, emphasizing the vertical movement of the glaze. During firing, the material gathers and stretches downward in bold yudare, creating elongated traces that heighten the sense of suspended motion. The cascade feels more continuous, more drawn out.

The base is finished in a subdued, smoke-toned silver. Its coarse, metallic texture grounds the piece, while the extended flow above introduces a subtle tension between stability and descent. The contrast becomes more pronounced in this taller form.

As with all works by Yamaura, the glaze halts just before fully enveloping the foot—a fleeting moment where intention meets chance. In this version, that pause feels heightened. Each firing produces nuanced variations, ensuring the individuality of every piece.

Yamaura Saori

Among today’s Kutani ware artists, Yamaura Saori brings a distinctive presence. Working from her home studio, she lets her hands guide her through subtle curves, gentle distortions, and soft transitions. Her pieces are not bound by convention, yet they are unmistakably rooted in craft. At once fluid and precise, intuitive and technical, her ceramics speak of a moment captured in time.

Kutani Ware

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.