A JAPANESE VASE BY TOKUDA YASOKICHI III/ MASAHIKO

TOKUDA YASOKICHI III/ MASAHIKO (1933-2009)
HEISEI, 20TH CENTURY

A Japanese Kutani vase of bulbous form with a waisted neck and a flared rim, decorated with a colourful glaze with aubergine, electric blue, cyan and yellow streaks, the white body left visible in places; signed underneath, 25.5cm; with a tomobako (wood box) inscribed Saiyu tsubo, Kutani Sandai, Yasokichi (vase with vivid glaze, 3rd generation Yasokichi) and with a red seal mark, 17.5cm. (2)

Provenance: from an English private collection, Wiltshire.

Tokuda Yasokichi III (1933-2009), also known as Masahiko, was a renowned Japanese potter, celebrated for his innovative saiyu glaze technique, creating vibrant and subtly shaded enamelware. He built upon his family's tradition, developing a distinctive modern style that earned him many awards and international recognition, with his works featured in major museums. He became the third generation to bear the name Tokuda Yasokichi and was recognized for his significant contributions to Kutani ware. Tokuda Yasokichi III was designated as a Living National Treasure in 1997.