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Kyoto native Ikai Yuichi received training under
the late Shimizu Uichi (1926-2004) who, in 1985, was awarded the title
of Living National Treasure for his outstanding work in ceramic
making. And it is from his sensei that Mr. Ikai learned
the secrets to coaxing subtle hues and fluid effects from the oldest
and most rudimentary of all glazes - hai, or ash.
Now an established ceramic artist in his own
right, Ikai Yuichi has developed a unique approach to pottery making
over the years: that is, to intervene as little as possible between
nature and the work itself. As a result, any sort of
mechanization to his craft is minimized, or avoided altogether, at
every step of the creative process. His glazes are unfiltered
and additive free, made from a simple mixture of water and straw, oak,
or cedar ash. The clays he uses are grainy and unprocessed, and
forming tools are often just the broken end of a tree branch.
Imperfection and asymmetry are emphasized over mechanical precision or
any contrived embellishments.
This elegant lidded vase by Ikai Yuichi has a soothing, organic tone.
It is done in an ash glaze (haiyu-sai) made from oak. While
cooling in the kiln, the natural iron content in the wood appears as
darker specs around the piece. A silver overglaze on the underside of the lid and around the rim adds a bit of reserved opulence, but only
when the lid is off.
The vase is tall enough to accommodate larger
flower arrangements.
It commands equal attention, however, all on its own and makes
the ideal centerpiece for any Japanese-influenced interior or modern
decor.
See Ikai Yuichi's
Takashimaya Gallery exhibition for more works from his recent collection.
A wooden presentation box will be custom made to order and signed by
the artist. Delivery time for this item is 2 weeks.
Additional photos are available upon request.
special care instructions |
