Hagi ceramic vase from Masanao Kaneta

This large, heavy Hagi ceramic vase was made by Masanao Kaneta, the eighth generation in a line of Hagi ceramicists. Born in 1953, he studied sculpture at the University of Tsukuba before joining the family kiln Tenchōzan, where he perpetuates and reinvents the tradition of Hagi-yaki.

This vase features an irregular sculptural shape, achieved through the kurinuki technique, which involves directly sculpting a block of clay to create a unique silhouette. It rests on a contrasting hexagonal base, accentuating its contemporary character. Its surface is covered in white enamel, the subtle variations of which are the result of yōhen, a transformation effect due to kiln firing. Some parts of the vase reveal beige shades and natural oxidation marks, creating a rich visual texture. Unusually, it comes with a small lid to close the opening of the vase, allowing it to become a true sculpture.

Tenchōzan Kiln, run by the Kaneta family, is located in Hagi, Yamaguchi Prefecture. It specializes in Hagi-yaki, a style of ceramics known for its subtle glazes and distinctive absorption of liquids. The pieces are fired in a noborigama, a traditional staircase kiln that allows for a gradual rise in temperature, giving the ceramics their unique texture and patina.

This vase is signed at its base and comes with its original wooden box (tomobako), signed by the craftsman as well as his seal, guaranteeing its authenticity. A document (shiori) with the ceramist's profile is also included as well as a tomonuno, the protective cloth with the ceramist's official seal.