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Kutani vase, made by Kenjiro Ota, polychrome and gold decorated vase, "Iris"
€650Bid from €550
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About this seller
Private sellerClichy, FranceOn Whoppah since December 2025 • 5 sales
Product description
I am selling this Kutani vase made by Kenjiro Ota, decorated with polychrome and gold irises.
A piece of very high-quality Japanese porcelain.
- Product Type: Collector's Vase
- Origin: Japanese Kutani Porcelain
- Motif: Polychrome and Gold Iris
Artist: Kenjiro Ota (Signed on the base and box)
Excellent Condition: Hardly used with minimal signs of wear
Height: 23 cm Width: 19 cm Depth: 23 cm
Estimated Period: 1950-1960
Technique: Polychrome overglaze enamel with high-carat gold gilding
Includes: Original Tomobako (Paulownia wood box) and artist's profile insert.
Theme: "Sobu" (Iris / Sweet Flag)
Condition: Museum quality, impeccably preserved. "Kutani pottery has always been called 'The King of Japanese Overglaze Ceramics.' This vase by Ota Kenjiro is a prime example of this heritage. It embodies the 'Miyabi' (courtly elegance) of Japan, making it a sophisticated addition to any collection of Asian art or luxury home décor.
The Artist: Ota Kenjiro (太田 健次郎)
A celebrated figure in the modern Kutani scene, Ota Kenjiro is known for his technical prowess in Iro-e (overglaze painting) and Kinsai (goldwork). His works are characterized by a 'noble luminosity,' bridging the gap between traditional decorative arts and modern fine art. Every brushstroke on this vessel reflects a lifetime of dedication to the rigorous standards of Kanazawa's ceramic heritage.
2. The Motif: The Iris (Ayame)
In Japanese culture, the iris is a symbol of protection, of purification and the arrival of early summer.
Dynamic Composition: The irises curl around the vessel in a rhythmic, flowing motion, echoing the movement of water and wind.
The Palette: Using the traditional Kutani Gosai (five colors), the artist achieves a vivid depth in the petals, ranging from deep indigos to soft violets.
3. Technique: The "Kinsai" Gold Tradition
What distinguishes this piece is the exquisite use of frosted gold decoration.
Elevated Glazes: Look closely at the gilded contours; they are slightly raised, providing a three-dimensional texture that catches the light from every angle.
Golden Radiance: The gold is not just an accent, but a structural element of the design, creating a shimmering backdrop that elevates the vase from a functional object to a jewel-like centerpiece.
For any further inquiries, please feel free to contact me.
I remain at Yours sincerely,
Best regards,
Specifications
ConditionGoodColorsMulti ColorMaterialPorcelainNumber of items1Height23 cmWidth19 cmDepth19 cm
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Seller information
About this seller
Private sellerClichy, FranceOn Whoppah since December 2025 • 5 sales