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Rare Miura Chikken Japanese Kyō-yaki Vase Kyoto style Tenmoku (tetsu-yu) glaze
€799Bid from €699
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Private sellerBerlin, GermanyOn Whoppah since August 2023 • 25 sales
Product description
Rare Japanese Kyō-yaki Vase by Miura Chikken
Tenmoku (Tetsu-yu) Glaze · Kyoto, Japan · Mid-20th Century
This rare Japanese ceramic vase is an accomplished example of Kyoto (Kyō-yaki) pottery, executed in a deep Tenmoku (tetsu-yu) glaze and attributed to Miura Chikken (三浦竹軒), a master potter of the renowned Miura / Chikusen lineage.
The vase presents a compact, bulbous body rising into a slender, gently flared neck—an archetypal form within Japanese tea-ceremony ceramics. The surface is coated in a lustrous iron-rich glaze, ranging from dense black to warm brown, animated by finely scattered speckling created during firing. This subtle “freckling” is characteristic of high-quality Tenmoku glazes and results from controlled kiln atmosphere and mineral composition rather than surface decoration.
The unglazed foot reveals a finely trimmed base with visible throwing rings and bears the impressed seal mark of the artist. The vase is accompanied by its original signed tomobako (wooden storage box), confirming its status as a valued and intentional work rather than a utilitarian object.
Artist & Historical Context
Miura Chikken (1900–1990) was originally known as Miura Chikusen III, before establishing his independent artistic identity. He was a key figure in 20th-century Kyō-yaki, specialising in sencha tea utensils, vases, incense burners, and sculptural works. While he is particularly celebrated for kinrande (gold-decorated red wares), his mastery of classical glaze traditions—such as Tenmoku—demonstrates a deep engagement with historical ceramic language.
Chikken was officially certified by the Japanese government as a Preserver of Traditional Craftsmanship, recognising his contribution to sustaining and advancing Kyoto ceramic traditions. Works by Miura Chikken are held in institutional collections, including the British Museum.
Design Significance
Tenmoku glazes originate from Chinese Song-dynasty ceramics and were later absorbed into Japanese tea culture, where they came to symbolise restraint, depth, and contemplative beauty. In this vase, the glaze functions not as ornament but as structure and atmosphere—its optical depth responding subtly to light and movement.
The form and finish align closely with sencha aesthetics: elegant, restrained, and quietly expressive. Whether displayed as a sculptural object or used in a tea-ceremony context, the piece embodies the Japanese principle of yō no bi—beauty through use.
Details
Artist: Miura Chikken (三浦竹軒, Miura Chikusen III)
Origin: Kyoto, Japan
Material: Stoneware
Glaze: Tenmoku / Tetsu-yu (iron glaze)
Period: Mid-20th century
Marks: Artist’s seal on base
Accessories: Original signed wooden tomobako
Condition: Very good vintage condition; no chips, cracks, or restorations. Minor kiln and age-related irregularities consistent with handmade ceramics.
Collector’s Note
Authentic Kyō-yaki works by Miura Chikken—particularly those retaining their original tomobako—are increasingly scarce on the international market. This vase represents a refined intersection of Japanese tea culture, historical glaze tradition, and 20th-century studio craftsmanship, making it a compelling acquisition for collectors of Japanese ceramics or serious design objects.
General Information
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International buyers are welcome; import duties or taxes, if applicable, are the buyer’s responsibility.
All items are photographed and described with care. Vintage pieces may show minimal traces of age; any significant flaws will be clearly mentioned.
Specifications
ConditionExcellentColorsBlackMaterialCeramicNumber of items1Height20 cmWidth14 cmDepth14 cm
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Seller information
About this seller
Private sellerBerlin, GermanyOn Whoppah since August 2023 • 25 sales