Vintage Japanese Shigaraki-yaki Ikebana Vase, 1970–1980

A richly decorated Japanese Shigaraki-yaki flower vase with tomobako, earthy glazes and incised geometric motifs.

Dimensions: height 17 cm, diameter 17 cm. In perfect condition.

This vintage Japanese ikebana vase dates from the late Shōwa period and comes with its original tomobako. The wooden box mentions “Shigaraki-yaki”, “flower vase” and “sansai”, referring to the three-colour glaze effect.

The base of the vase also bears an impressed maker’s stamp.

The vase has a rounded, compact form with a wide neck and a strong decorative surface. The lower section is finished in warm earthy tones, with reddish-brown, green and grey speckles that evoke natural stone. Above this runs a lighter glazed band with incised diamond motifs, finished with flowing wave-like lines that give the object rhythm and movement. The dark upper rim creates a beautiful contrast with the lighter central band.

Today, this is a particularly beautiful object for contemporary use: ideal as an ikebana vase, a low flower vase or as a decorative ceramic piece in its own right. Even without flowers, the vase has a strong presence on a low table, cabinet, pedestal or combined with wood, textile and other Japanese objects.