Vessel / Mihara Ken
Large Sekki Vessel by Mihara Ken
May your year be as full, ripe and energetic as this large sekki Mihara creation! Mihara Ken (1958- ), the first artist to hold an online exhibition at our gallery in 2002, is an amazing artist. His respect from critics and fans of the pottery world is growing each year--last year in Italy as well(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 recently-fired 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 40.5cm.tallx35.5x33.0, in perfect condition with a signed box. We have a few other Mihara works and previews are seen here, more details upon request. Kotoshi mo yoroshiku onegaishimasu.
ADDITIONAL PHOTOS
