Mizusashi / Ono Kotaro
Ouji Porcelain Mizusashi by Ono Kotaro
Ono Kotaro (1953- ), winner of the 4th Mashiko Ceramics Competition Hamada Shoji Prize, creates sleek, sharp porcelain wares. What is unique about this artist--besides being based in Hokkaido--is that his porcelain has two sides to its character: at first glance, his wares look crisp and cool, like fallen snowdrops. Yet at the same time, he has instilled in his works a delicate, warm glow that is not often found in porcelain wares. This trait can be seen especially in his Seihakuji (Bluish White Porcelain) and Ouji (Creamy Yellow Porcelain). Ono uses shinogi faceted lines that give his pieces a wave-like rhythm that is uncommon in "static" porcelain. He has a keen sense of balance and design, and retains porcelain's elegance while simultaneously being innovative in his "soft yet sharp warmth." Here is a fine example of Ono's ouji glaze in a flowing mizusashi--fresh water jar--form. A mention should be made that an Ono Seihakuji mizusashi (fresh water jar) was acquired by the famous Mary and Jackson Burke Foundation (one of the best Japanese Art collections overseas), and what's more, this piece was exhibited at the Metropolitan Musuem's Japan Wing last year. This Ouji mizusashi is 15cm. tall and 20cm. wide, comes with a black lacquer lid and a signed box and is in perfect condition.
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