Hayashi Shotaro (林正太郎), Japanese (b. 1947)

A Shino Flower Vase (万葉志野花生)

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

About the work

An impressive Manyo Shino flower vase by Hayashi Shotaro, a prominent Mino potter celebrated for his powerful forms and mastery of Shino glaze. The vase demonstrates both sculptural energy and refined surface treatment, hallmarks of his highly individual style.

The tall, angular form rises to a bold, split opening, its dynamic architecture accentuated by thick feldspathic glaze. Creamy white surfaces contrast with vivid scarlet iron markings and kiln-fired accents, producing a striking interplay of texture and color. The work exemplifies Shotaro’s ability to merge traditional Shino aesthetics with a modern, sculptural sensibility.

The vase is accompanied by its original signed tomobako (wooden storage box), cloth, and paper insert, attesting to its authenticity.

Dimensions

28cm(h) x 14.5cm(w) x 13.8cm(d)

Footnote

Hayashi Shotaro, born in 1947 in Toki City—a region renowned for its Mino ceramics—initially pursued a career as a salaryman in Nagoya before returning to his roots to study pottery under his brother. His innate talent soon flourished, earning him accolades such as the highest award at the Gifu Prefectural Art Exhibition in 1968 and the Governor’s Award at the Asahi Ceramic Exhibition in 1971.

An official Beholder of Intangible Cultural Property of the Mino Prefecture, Hayashi has had his works included in numerous museum collections both in Japan and internationally. His robust forms and masterful use of traditional Shino techniques have cemented his status as one of the foremost figures in modern Japanese ceramics, while his contemporary innovations, such as the Manyosai glaze, continue to inspire new generations of ceramic artists.