Yamato Yasuo (大和保男), Japanese (b. 1933)

A Ensai Henko Flat Vase(炎彩扁壷)

Showa Era (1926-1989) or  Heisei Era (1989-2019) 

About the work

A monumental and highly sculptural Hagi ware flat vase by Yamato Yasuo, executed in his celebrated ensai (“flame-colored”) style. The boldly compressed circular form is animated by sweeping bands of fiery red, gold, ochre, and charcoal tones created through dynamic firing effects, producing a surface rich in movement and atmospheric depth. The dramatic coloration and textured glaze evoke scorched earth and drifting smoke, while the asymmetrical contours and subtly faceted body emphasize the work’s commanding sculptural presence.

Balancing the traditions of Hagi ware with a distinctly modern sensibility, the work moves beyond functional ceramics into the realm of abstract ceramic sculpture. The flattened profile and carefully integrated aperture create a powerful architectural silhouette, while the richly varied kiln effects reveal the artist’s mastery of firing and glaze control.

Signed to the underside and accompanied by the original inscribed wooden tomobako.

Dimensions

38cm(h) x 35cm(w) x 14cm(d)

Footnote

Yamato Yasuo (born 1933) is an important Japanese ceramic artist and master of Hagi ware from Yamaguchi Prefecture. Introduced to pottery at a young age while assisting at the family kiln during the wartime shortage of craftsmen, he later trained formally under his father and developed a highly individual ceramic practice. Renowned for his innovative “ensai” works distinguished by vivid flame-like coloration and sculptural forms, Yamato has played a significant role in the evolution of contemporary Hagi ware. In 1988 he was designated a Holder of Intangible Cultural Property for Hagi ware by Yamaguchi Prefecture. His career includes numerous exhibitions and awards, among them the Japan Kōgei Association Prize and the Order of the Rising Sun, Gold Rays with Rosette in 2007. Internationally active, he also presented the “400 Years of Hagi Ware” exhibition in Paris in 2000, helping introduce modern Hagi ceramics to a wider global audience.