Hara Kiyoshi (原清), Japanese, b.1936

An Iron-Glazed Beast Motif Vase (鉄釉獣文花瓶)

Showa Era (1926-1989), Heisei Era (1989-2019) or Reiwa Era (2019-present)

About the work

This striking tetsuyu (iron-glazed) vase by Hara Kiyoshi, Living National Treasure for iron-glazed ceramics, embodies his balance of technical mastery and expressive artistry. The rounded form with a slightly flared neck provides an ideal canvas for the dramatic glaze work. Layers of lustrous black and earthy reddish-brown iron glaze create a rich interplay of tone and depth, with the surface divided into three panels depicting bold beast motifs in dynamic silhouette.

The contrast between the dense, glossy glaze and softer mottled textures enhances the sense of vitality, recalling ancient forms while remaining distinctly modern. Both powerful and refined, the piece reflects Hara’s lifelong study of iron glazes and his ability to push the medium toward new expressive horizons. Preserved in its original signed wooden box, the vase exemplifies his celebrated artistry.

Dimensions

24.5cm(h) x 22.5cm(w)

Footnote

Hara Kiyoshi (b. 1936), from Gifu Prefecture, is a celebrated Japanese ceramic artist and designated Living National Treasure for iron-glazed pottery. Trained under Ishiguro Munemaro and Shimizu Uichi, both Living National Treasures, he became the foremost authority on tetsuyu ceramics. His works, widely exhibited and collected, are renowned for elevating the expressive potential of iron glazes in postwar Japanese ceramic art.