Ken Matsuzaki (松崎建), Japanese (b. 1950)

A Yōhen Soda Gosu Yunomi (窯変曹達呉須地湯呑)

Heisei Era (1989–2019) 

About the work

A striking yunomi by celebrated contemporary ceramic artist Ken Matsuzaki, distinguished by its dramatic contrasts of deep cobalt blue, pale blue white and dark, textured clay. The vessel has a substantial, gently tapering form, rising from a narrow foot to a broad, subtly irregular rim.

The exterior displays a particularly expressive arrangement of glazes and firing effects. A large, irregular area of pale blue white glaze spreads across the front, its surface marked by pronounced crackling and small pinholes. Dark cobalt blue streaks descend through this lighter passage, creating a dynamic contrast with the surrounding charcoal coloured clay. The reverse is dominated by richly textured blue glaze, with darker areas that emphasise the vessel's rugged character. 

The title refers to yōhen (窯変), the transformations in colour and texture produced during firing, and gosu (呉須), the cobalt based pigment traditionally used in Japanese ceramics. The reference to soda (曹達) indicates the use of soda in the ceramic treatment. Together, these elements contribute to the distinctive blue coloration and varied surface effects that characterise the work.

The yunomi is accompanied by its original signed wooden tomobako, together with documentation.

Dimensions

10cm(h) x 8.5cm(w)

Footnote

Ken Matsuzaki, born in 1950 in Tokyo, is a renowned ceramic artist trained at Tamagawa University's School of Fine Arts. After apprenticing under Tatsuzo Shimaoka in Mashiko, he established his kiln, Yuushin Gama. Known for blending traditional Shino, Oribe, and yohen glazes with modern aesthetics, his works are celebrated worldwide and included in prestigious collections such as the Metropolitan Museum of Art and the Victoria and Albert Museum.