Indigo blue vase by Hiroaki Morino

An elegant indigo blue vase enhanced with matte gold lines by Hiroaki Morino, a master of Japanese ceramics, recognized for his unique use of indigo blue, an emblematic color of Japanese culture. His works, very contemporary, are characterized by sculptural geometric shapes, with surfaces decorated with matte glazes. His pieces, like this vase, often feature horizontal or vertical waves of color, enriched with touches of gold or silver, adding a luminous elegance.

Morino san combines ancient techniques (the Kyoto ceramic techniques, kyo-yaki) and modernity, inspired by his mentor Kenkichi Tomimoto and influenced by Western art, particularly pop art and abstract expressionism that he discovered during his stay in the United States. This vase is a very technical piece while being deeply poetic, it was made with high temperature firings which allows precise control and oxidation of the bright colors. Morino san used a variety of clays that allowed the deep shades of blue to be revealed during the firing process. He also incorporated meticulous surface treatments, such as brushstrokes and layered glazes.

This vase is signed (engraved) by the artist on its base and comes with its protective wooden box on which the artist's name and official seal are affixed (inside the lid) and closed with a sanadahimo (braided cord), guaranteeing its authenticity. A rare and precious piece.

About Hiroaki Morino:

Born in 1934 in Kyoto, Hiroaki Morino studied at Kyoto University of the Arts. From the 1950s onwards he began to make a name for himself thanks to his works presented in major exhibitions such as the Nitten Exhibition, where he won several awards. He taught at the University of Chicago in the 1960s, where he discovered Western contemporary art, which influenced his own style. His work is now exhibited in world-renowned museums, including the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York and the Victoria & Albert Museum in London. Morino san has received numerous honors, including the prestigious Order of the Rising Sun in recognition of his contributions to Japanese art.