This vase by Masayuki Uraguchi features his classic seiji celadon with prominent mauve-toned crazing. However the shape is unusual. Starting with a wide and flat bottom, the neck emerges directly from the base, flaring out in a wide mouth. The form predicts some of Uraguchi’s more adventurous and experimental later shapes that take a common element and expand the scale - perhaps in this case a vase’s neck.

However, as another collector-friend mentioned, such a large and flat base would allow for heavier flowers, or arrangements with projecting stems. So in addition to taking an unusual form, Uraguchi’s vase is practical as well. The combination of shape and stability make this an interesting choice for ikebana.

As a student of ceramics, Uraguchi became obsessed with Song dynasty ceramics, taking the opportunity to study under celadon Living National Treasure Miura Koheiji at Tokyo University of Art. He also spent time in China studying guan and longquan wares and the sites where they were produced. His meticulous research and experimenting has resulted in new variations of classic Chinese wares not seen before.

Comes with the signed, stamped, and titled wood box, stamped wrapping cloth, and CV.  Please note that the wood box’s original ties were removed at some point and have replacement ties.