Imaizumi Imaemon XII (十二代 今泉今右衛門), Japanese, 1897–1975

A Iro-Nabeshima Vase with Floral Decoration (錦草花文花器)

Showa Era (1926-1989)

About the work

An elegant porcelain vase by Imaizumi Imaemon XII, the twelfth-generation master of the celebrated Imaemon kiln in Arita. This work exemplifies the refined artistry of Nabeshima tradition, combining bold floral motifs with the precise, luminous overglaze enamels for which the kiln is renowned.

The baluster-form vessel rises to a gently flaring rim and is decorated in vivid polychrome enamels over cobalt blue underglaze. Peonies, chrysanthemums, and grasses are rendered in rich tones of red, green, and yellow, their forms unfolding dynamically across the pristine white ground. The balance of color and line exemplifies Imaemon XII’s mastery in adapting the Iro-Nabeshima palette to contemporary expression.

The vase bears the kiln’s mark to the base, attesting to its authenticity and distinguished provenance.

Dimensions

28cm(h) x 17cm(w)

Footnote

Imaizumi Imaemon XII (1897–1975) played a pivotal role in the revival of Iro-Nabeshima porcelain. Since the Meiji era, the Imaemon family had overseen the entire production process, beginning with clay preparation in 1871. Across three generations—X, XI, and XII—the kiln restored the prestige of Iro-Nabeshima, culminating in its designation as an Important Intangible Cultural Property in 1971. Under Imaemon XII’s leadership, the kiln remained faithful to Edo-period methods, executing each stage of production by hand, while reinvigorating Nabeshima ware with renewed vitality and artistry.