Saiko Fukuoka (福岡彩子), Japanese (b. 1966)

A Green Glazed Tea Bowl (緑釉茶碗)

Year 2013 February 

About the work

A beautifully crafted green glazed tea bowl by contemporary ceramic artist Saiko Fukuoka, renowned for her distinctive interpretation of traditional Japanese glazing techniques. The bowl is enveloped in a luminous emerald green glaze that pools richly within the interior, while dramatic dark iron-like drips descend from the rim, creating a striking visual rhythm reminiscent of ink brushwork against a vibrant green ground.

The elegantly flared form sits comfortably in the hands, making it both aesthetically pleasing and practical for tea ceremony use. Fine throwing lines remain subtly visible beneath the translucent glaze, lending depth and movement to the surface. The contrasting iron-toned rim and neatly finished foot reveal the warm clay body beneath, enhancing the bowl's natural character and craftsmanship.

On the backside of the lid of the wooden storage box, signed by Fukuoka, is written: 緑映ゆるトス 求ニ衣ズ (‘The green reflection shifts and sways; seeking, yet not cloaked in it’). It poetically describes the elusive, aesthetic essence of the bowl.

The tea bowl is signed on the base and is accompanied by its original signed wooden storage box (tomobako) and original wrapping cloth.

Dimensions

7.4cm(h) x 15.8cm(w)

Footnote

Saiko Fukuoka (福岡彩子, b. 1966) is a contemporary Japanese ceramic artist born in Sakai, Osaka. After graduating from Doshisha Women's College in 1989, she furthered her ceramic studies at Bath Spa University in the United Kingdom before becoming a Studio Artist at The Shigaraki Ceramic Cultural Park in 2003. Her work has been selected for the Asahi Contemporary Craft Exhibition on multiple occasions and featured at prestigious craft events including Craft Fair Matsumoto, Field of Craft Kurashiki, and Art in DOJIMA. Best known for her richly coloured glazes and contemporary interpretations of traditional Japanese ceramics, she regularly presents solo and group exhibitions throughout the Kansai region.