Vase /
Sekki Futamono Lidded Vase by Mihara Ken
Mihara Ken (1958- ), the first artist to hold an online exhibition at our gallery, is an amazing artist. His respect from critics and fans of the pottery world is growing with every day (as well as his long list of awards), and is without doubt one of the most creative potters of his generation (the same generation of potters as Ichino Masahiko). He comes from the land of Izumo (present-day Tottori Prefecture), a mystical part of Western Japan steeped in ancient mythology and Shinto religion. Izumo is where the many gods of Japan congregate every October to discuss the workings of the world. Mihara wished to capture the mythical mysticism of his home, to capture the tones that were analogous to the breathtaking rural landscapes of Izumo -hence, he arrived at his Sekki, or "stoneware" series. Mihara's Sekki have a primordial energy, both subtle yet sublime, that is rich in Japanese spirituality -such are his sleek ceremonial forms and color schemes of grayish purples and blues, a call to both nature and Shinto, of Sue and Yayoi ancient wares, of Kamoda Shoji and Suzuki Osamu. This vase, a "futamono" lidded vase, is a new form of Mihara's, and reminds one of a sea cucumber, eggplant, or a Japanese melon. The lid is unique, like a capped branch, and the dark tones of the yakishime body are immediately recognizable as Mihara's. From a potter whose star will surely continue to rise, Mihara Ken's Sekki vase is 26cm tall, 16.5cm wide, comes with a signed box and is in perfect condition. A book, in both Japanese, and English, was recently published on Mihara. For inquiries, one can inquire on our homepage, or please visit www.japanesepotterybooks.com . Also stay tuned for Robert Yellin's new book, titled "Ode to Japanese Pottery," at http://www.japanesepottery.com/Site_Map/book-yellin/book-yellin.html.
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