Konishi Yohei (小西洋平), Japanese (b. 1941)

A Tokoname Ware Yohen Vase

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

About the work

This sculptural Tokoname ware vase by Konishi Yohei exemplifies the dynamic beauty of yohen (kiln transformation). The bold, faceted body rises in an angular, twisting form, its surfaces enriched with natural ash deposits and a subtle interplay of earthy reds, browns, and greens. The narrow neck and small flared mouth provide a striking contrast to the robust base, heightening the sense of balance between strength and refinement. The yohen finish, created through the unpredictability of high-temperature firing, reflects the Japanese wabi-sabi aesthetic, celebrating imperfection and transience. 

Housed in its original signed wooden box (tomobako), this piece is a testament to both Tokoname tradition and the artist’s innovative spirit.

Dimensions

16.2cm(h) x 14.2cm(w) x 11cm(d)

Footnote

Konishi Yohei (b. 1941), the eldest son of master potter Yusen, was born in Tokoname, one of Japan’s Six Ancient Kilns. After graduating from Tokoname Senior High School’s Ceramics Department in 1959, he quickly gained recognition, with early selections in the Contemporary Japanese Ceramics Exhibition and the Japan Folk Crafts Exhibition. His career includes numerous accolades, such as the Silver Prize at the 6th International Ceramic Exhibition in Vallauris, France (1978), and repeated entries in the Japan Traditional Art Crafts Exhibition. Internationally active, he participated in the Japan-China International Ceramic Exhibition (1983) and the Malaysia International Ceramic Exchange (1992). Konishi has been designated an Important Intangible Cultural Asset of Tokoname and is a full member of the Japan Kōgei Association.