Kawai Kanjiro (河井寛次郎), Japanese, 1890-1966

A Floral Hira-Tsubo (扁壺)

Taisho Era (1912-1926) or Showa Era (1926-1989)

About the work

This beautiful hira-tsubo (flattened jar) by the revered potter Kawai Kanjiro exudes a powerful sense of presence with its solid, substantial form. The exterior is coated in a rich, flowing glaze that adds a smooth, lustrous finish, enhancing the depth and texture of the piece. A captivating floral motif, rendered in Kawai's signature ethereal style, graces the surface, creating a vivid and poetic representation of nature's delicate beauty. The craftsmanship highlights the artist's ability to blend elegance with the raw elements of clay and fire.

Included is a tomobako (signed wooden storage box) and a protective cloth, making this a valuable item for collectors and admirers of traditional Japanese ceramics.

Dimensions

15.7cm(h) x 11.6cm(w) x 7.5cm(d)

Footnote

Kawai Kanjiro was a key figure in the Japanese mingei (folk craft) movement, and his works embody the spirit of combining functionality with artistic beauty. He was also a close associate of Bernard Leach, the renowned British studio potter, and their collaboration helped bridge Western and Eastern pottery traditions, profoundly influencing modern ceramics.