Okada Teru (岡田輝), Japanese (b. 1947)

A Bizen Square Vase (備前叩き四方花入)

Heisei Era (1989-2019) or Reiwa Era (2019-present)

About the work

A finely crafted Bizen-yaki square flower vase by Okada Teru, a respected master of Bizen pottery. This piece highlights the tataki (叩き) technique, where clay is shaped through paddling, creating a structured yet organic form. The natural wood-fired finish features earthy textures, kiln-induced color variations, and subtle ash deposits, showcasing the unpredictable beauty of traditional firing methods. Its geometric lines and raw surface embody both strength and elegance, making it an excellent piece for ikebana or display.

Included with the vase is a tomobako (signed wooden storage box), tomofuku (cloth), and an artist’s certificate, ensuring authenticity and value.

Dimensions

26cm(h) x 12.9cm(w) x 12.4cm(d)

Footnote

Okada Teru (岡田輝) was born in 1947 in Maizuru, Kyoto Prefecture, and is a distinguished figure in Bizen pottery. A graduate of Musashino Art University, he apprenticed under Living National Treasure Fujiwara Yu. His work is renowned for its use of traditional wood-firing techniques, producing rich textures and natural hues. Okada has exhibited widely, receiving numerous accolades, and has played a key role in preserving Bizen ceramics as a professor at Kurashiki University of Science and the Arts.