Square Vase Somenishiki Ouraku Sakura | Kousai Kasahara Traditional Craftsperson work [265002]

[size]
Width: 15 cm / Height: 26.8 cm
Width: 5.9 in / Height: 10.6 in

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This work is by Kosai Kasahara, a lead ing figure in the world of Arita ware artistry.

It is a luxurious square-shaped vase, richly decorated us ing the *sometsuke* (underglaze blue) and *akae* (overglaze enamel) techniques, known collectively as *sometsuke & nishiki*. The vase features a fantastical landscape where colorful flowers and elegant pavilions intertw ine, pa inted in vivid vermilion, blue, and gold hues. The overlapp ing colors create a grand, scroll-like visual experience that captures the viewer’s imag ination.

Particularly noteworthy is the vase’s dist inctive square form?an uncommon shape even among Arita ware. The cont inuous, un interrupted pa int ing across each of its four sides showcases the artist’s exceptional brushwork and compositional mastery. Even the base of the vase, typically hidden from view, is intricately adorned, embody ing the harmony of functionality and beauty.

The pavilions surrounded by lavish blossoms are traditional auspicious motifs, symboliz ing *prosperity* and *peace*. Whether used as a centerpiece in an interior space or as a ref ined gift, this piece stands as a stunn ing example of both artistic sophistication and timeless symbolism.


[Potter Profile]
Traditional craftsperson
Kosai Kasahara

Kosai Kasahara is a certified traditional craftsperson specializ ing in underglaze pa int ing for Arita ware. He is a lead ing figure in the world of Arita f ine ceramics, known for design ing and produc ing vases and large plates. He has presented numerous bold and innovative works while mak ing full use of traditional techniques.


Biography:
1957 Born in Arita, Saga Prefecture
1973 Began tra in ing in large-scale decorative pa int ing under master pa inter Masateru Furukawa
1977 Jo ined Koueimon Kiln, where he was involved in design and pa int ing
1987 Studied ink landscape pa int ing under the late Ichiji Kanetake, a nationally recognized master craftsman
1992 Became independent and founded the Kasahara Kosai Kiln
1995 Certified as a traditional craftsperson
2012 Began teach ing decorative pa int ing techniques to younger generations at the Saga Prefectural Ceramic industry Association


[Major Exhibitions and Awards]
* National Traditional Craft Exhibition
* Kyushu-Yamaguchi Ceramic Exhibition (Technical Excellence Award)
* Saga Prefectural Exhibition (Ceramic Arts Association Award)
* Western Japan Craft Exhibition
* Saga Prefectural Art Association Exhibition
* West Japan Ceramic Exhibition
* And many others