Mizusashi /
Seihakuji Mizusashi by Ono Kotaro
Ono Kotaro (1953- ), winner of the 4th Mashiko Ceramics Competition Hamada Shoji Prize, creates sleek, sharp porcelain wares. Yet, what is unique about this artist 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, or incisions, 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." Ono (pronounced Oh-no) has sent us many new works, and they quickly injected a fresh, cool breath of air into our humid Mishima office (as we have properly entered the rainy season in Japan). A mention should be made that an Ono Seihakuji mizusashi (fresh water jar) was recently acquired by the famous Mary and Jackson Burke Foundation (one of the best Japanese Art collections overseas), and what's more, this piece will be exhibited at the Metropolitan Musuem's Japan Wing this June. Very exciting, and congratulations to Ono-sensei for the wonderful news! This Seihakuji mizusashi is in the same style and type of ware as the piece in the Burke. With a lacquer lid, this water jar is 14.6cm tall, 22cm wide, comes with a signed box and is in perfect condition.
ADDITIONAL PHOTOS
