Platter / Funaki Kenji
Large Slipware Platter by Funaki Kenji
The Fujina kilns in Shimane prefecture have been making local tableware since the mid 1700s, yet things took a big turn in the mid 20th century when Yanagi, Leach and Hamada came to town. They introduced English slipware to the kilns output--in particular to the Funaki kiln--and that brought a fresh approach to Fujina wares in terms of designs and form that allowed the kiln to revitalize itself. The leader then was Funaki Michitada(1900-1963), who trained his son Kenji(b.1927-). This large yellow-glazed platter is a superb example of the Funaki style, made by Kenji in the early 1960s. The dark mustard toned glaze adds a shibui tone to the overall feel, while the black animated wavy lines add a vibrant energy. Funaki is an award-winning ceramic artist---and also the teacher of Mihara Ken--whose works are in the Japan Folkcraft Museum (Mingeikan) in Tokyo and have been exhibited at the National Museum of Modern Art, Kyoto. He studied with Hamada as well and was a major Mingei potter of the 20th century. In perfect condition with a signed box, 6.2cm.tall, 44cm.long and 33.5cm.wide. This is the first Funaki Kenji piece we've handled--from a private Tokyo collection--and is museum quality, rare.
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