Nakamura Kinpei (中村錦平), Japanese (b. 1935)

A Glazed Ceramic Plate “Rururu” (るるる盤)

Showa Era (1926-1989), Heisei Era (1989–2019) or Reiwa Era (2019 – present)

About the work

A bold and evocative sculptural ceramic work by Nakamura Kinpei, titled “Rururu”. This captivating piece features a dramatically rugged form with a crater-like depression filled with vibrant blue and turquoise crystalline glaze. Its expressive surface is marked by intricate textures, organic ridges, and cratered impressions, reminiscent of volcanic terrain or natural geological formations.

The work comes housed in its original signed tomobako (wooden box) and includes a leaflet.

Dimensions

4cm(h) x 31.5cm(w) x 25.5cm(d)

Footnote

Nakamura Kinpei (中村錦平) is a renowned Japanese ceramic artist and modern art innovator, born in 1935 in Kanazawa, Ishikawa Prefecture. Celebrated for his pioneering role in postwar Japanese ceramics, Nakamura blends traditional forms with avant-garde expression. Drawing early inspiration from Kitaoji Rosanjin, he developed a distinctive style that challenged established boundaries. His major works include the Ceramic Wall for the Sony Building in Ginza and contributions to the Japanese Pavilion at Expo 67 in Montreal—demonstrating his talent for integrating ceramics with architecture. A recipient of the Minister of Education Award for Fine Arts in 1993, Nakamura also served as a professor at Tama Art University, influencing a new generation of ceramic artists.