Taro Kamoda (加守田太郎), Japanese (b. 1963)

A Tokkuri Flask

Shōwa Era (1926–1989) or Heisei Era (1989-2019)

About the work

A striking stoneware vessel by Taro Kamoda, one of the most innovative and influential ceramic artists of post-war Japan. Although titled Tokkuri (sake flask), the work transcends its traditional form through its highly individual treatment of surface and decoration.

The vessel features a cylindrical body rising to a short, restrained neck, its surface articulated with deeply incised vertical fluting. Each recessed band is filled with richly coloured glazes in shades of cobalt blue, emerald green, amber, ochre, and iron brown, creating a rhythmic interplay of colour and texture. The contrasting ivory glaze of the neck and shoulder provides a calm visual balance to the vibrant decoration below. The geometric precision of the fluted design reflects Kamoda's fascination with pattern, structure, and abstraction, qualities that distinguish his mature works.

The work is accompanied by its original signed wooden storage box (tomobako) and retains the artist's impressed seal mark.

Dimensions

15.3cm(h) x 6.5cm(w)

Footnote

Taro Kamoda is a distinguished contemporary Japanese potter specializing in Mashiko ware. The eldest son of the renowned potter Shouji Kamoda, Taro initially pursued a different career before returning to Mashiko in 1983 following his father’s passing. Taking over the family kiln, Taro infused the traditional techniques of Mashiko pottery with modern geometric designs and bold color applications, establishing himself as a leading figure in the evolution of contemporary Japanese ceramics.