Kitaoji Rosanjin (北大路魯山人), Japanese (1883–1959)

An Aka-e Marudeoke Flower Vase (赤絵丸手桶花生)

Showa Era (1926-1989)

About the work

A highly distinctive aka-e flower vase by Kitaoji Rosanjin, one of the most original and influential figures in twentieth century Japanese art. Modelled in the form of a rounded handled bucket, or marudeoke, the vessel combines an archaic utilitarian form with exuberant painted decoration, reflecting Rosanjin’s ability to transform everyday objects into expressive works of art.

The vase is formed with a tall oval body, a broad rectangular opening and an integral arching handle supported by two projecting lugs. The pale stoneware surface is covered with a lively network of freely painted iron red lines, creating an animated ground across the entire vessel. Over this are scattered birds and floral motifs rendered in green, turquoise and red enamels, while alternating bands of colour articulate the handle and upper rim.

The decoration is energetic and deliberately irregular, with birds appearing to move across the densely patterned surface. Rosanjin’s spontaneous brushwork and unconventional use of colour give the vase a vivid, almost calligraphic quality. The tension between the rustic form, loosely controlled painting and refined overall composition is characteristic of his highly individual ceramic language.

The vase bears the artist’s impressed mark on the base and is accompanied by a fitted wooden storage box bearing an inscription and authentication by Tōtōan (陶々庵).

Dimensions

23cm(h) x 12cm(w) x 12.5cm(d)

Footnote

Kitaoji Rosanjin (1883–1959), born Kitaoji Fusajiro in Kyoto, was a remarkably versatile artist whose practice encompassed ceramics, calligraphy, painting, seal carving, lacquerwork and cuisine. Largely self taught, he first established his reputation through calligraphy and seal carving before developing a profound interest in ceramics and the relationship between food and vessels. In 1921, he founded the Bishoku Club, followed by the exclusive Hoshigaoka Saryō restaurant, for which he designed and produced tableware. He later established the Hoshigaoka kiln in Kamakura and created highly individual interpretations of Shino, Oribe, Bizen, Kutani and other historic ceramic traditions. Rosanjin was offered designation as a Living National Treasure for Oribe ware in 1955 but declined the honour. His bold forms, expressive decoration and uncompromising artistic vision secured his reputation as one of the defining figures of modern Japanese ceramics.