The kamifusen, or paper balloon, is a traditional Japanese toy made of washi paper. Popular with children, especially at festivals, kamifusen are inflated through its top flap. This flap remains open and, instead of deflating, patting up in the air with the palm of a hand actually keeps the balloon inflated. 

Perhaps it is this unusual characteristic that inspired Hideki Yanashita to capture the paper balloon's light and ephemeral nature in stoneware. Despite the earthy Shigaraki clay, Yanashita’s form appears soft and full of air. It sits so gently you can still imagine it floating.

In 2007 Yanashita Hideki moved his practice to Iga to work with Sugimoto Sadamitsu - the master potter and Zen monk - and ever since he has worked largely in the raku tradition. But Yanashita began his career in Shigaraki and still makes wonderful Shigaraki wares. 

Yanashita collects his own clay and fires his Shigaraki pots in his anagama kiln. Using red pine fuel, he brings the temperature to 1240 degrees, during firings that last up to 5 days. Like other yakishime traditions, Shigaraki wares are unglazed. You are left to enjoy the clay itself, with its fine splits and fissures and tiny ishihaze stone bursts of feldspar crystals.

New from the artist’s studio. Comes with the signed, stamped, and titled wood box, stamped wrapping cloth, and CV.