Vase Small Tetsuyu koi-e Carp | Fujii Kinsai's work [217083]

[size]
Width: 20cm / Height: 14.5cm
Width: 7.9in / Height: 5.7in

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This piece is by Kinsei Fujii, a renowned master in the world of Arita ware artistry.

A compact vase, it features an elegant depiction of two *nishikigoi* (ornamental carp), symbols of wealth and prosperity, gracefully swimming across the surface. The contrast between the vivid red-and-white koi and the deep black background rendered in *tetsuyū* (iron glaze) gives this small piece a striking presence.

*Nishikigoi* are celebrated worldwide for their beauty and vitality, and in Japanese and Chinese cultures, they carry deep symbolic meanings—such as “prosperity and wealth,” “longevity and health,” and “strength and perseverance.”

* As a symbol of **prosperity and wealth**, the koi’s vivid colors and high value have made it a traditional emblem of success. Red and gold koi, in particular, are associated with good fortune and financial abundance—this work prominently features a red koi to embody that significance.
* For **longevity and health**, koi are revered as long-living creatures, and their inclusion in art is often a wish for a long, healthy life.
* Regarding **strength and perseverance**, a Chinese legend tells of koi swimming upstream and transforming into dragons after conquering a waterfall—making them a fitting symbol for resilience and personal triumph.

In addition, the koi’s graceful movement through water evokes feelings of purity and spiritual cleansing. The water, rendered in a soft platinum glaze, symbolizes clarity and renewal, enhancing the piece’s serene aesthetic.

Standing at 15 cm tall, this vase fits harmoniously into modern interiors. Its modest size and auspicious motif make it a popular choice for gifts or as a tasteful decorative accent. Meticulously crafted through expert wheel-throwing, painting, and firing techniques, this is a true masterpiece of refined craftsmanship.




[Potter Profile]
Kinsai Fujii

Kinsai Fujii's works are characterized by their luxurious finish using the overglaze enamel (nishiki) technique. He utilize metallic hues such as gold and platinum, as well as traditional Arita nishiki colors like red, green, and purple, showcasing strong individuality in their creations

Kinsai Fujii's career is as follows :

Born in 1976 in Arita, Saga Prefecture, Japan.
Entered the wheel-throwing department at Saga Prefectural Arita Ceramic Technical School in 1991.
Studied under Living National Treasures Manji Inoue and Shigemasu Kajiwara in 1991.
Held the "Kinsai Fujii Exhibition" at Fukuoka Prefectural Museum of Art and Hita City Museum of Art in 2003.
Held the "Kinsai Fujii Exhibition" at Ehime Prefectural Museum of Art Branch in 2004.
Held numerous solo exhibitions at department stores and other venues nationwide since 1999.


[Main Awards]

Nagasaki Ceramics Exhibition, Asahi Shimbun Award
Kyushu-Yamaguchi Ceramics Exhibition, Selected
Workers' Art Exhibition, Minister of Labor Award
Asahi Ceramics Exhibition, Selected
Governor's Rotation, Saga Prefectural Governor's Award
Asia Craft Exhibition, Selected
And many others