An Iron-Painted Namako-Glazed Jar (鉄絵海鼠釉壷)
Showa Era (1926-1989) or Heisei Era (1989-2019) or Reiwa Era (2019 – present)
About the work
This iron-painted Namako-glazed jar by American ceramicist Malcolm Wright exemplifies his deep appreciation for Japanese pottery traditions. The vessel features a dynamic Namako glaze, a signature of traditional Japanese ceramics, combined with expressive iron-brushed accents that create a rhythmic, organic aesthetic. The soft, flowing glaze interacts beautifully with the jar's subtle faceted form, highlighting Wright’s masterful control of material and firing techniques.
Perfectly suited for display in a tea ceremony setting or as a sculptural art piece, this jar embodies the harmony between form and function found in traditional Japanese pottery.
The piece is accompanied by a tomobako (signed wooden storage box), ensuring authenticity and provenance.
Dimensions
28cm(h) x 22cm(w) x 22cm(d)
Footnote
Malcolm Wright is a distinguished American ceramic artist, born in 1945. After training under the renowned Karatsu potter Tarouemon Nakazato XII in Japan, Wright developed a unique style blending Japanese ceramic traditions with contemporary Western influences. He is particularly known for his exploration of Karatsu and Nanban aesthetics, producing works that balance tradition and innovation. His ceramics have been exhibited internationally and are highly sought after by collectors.