Japanese & Korean Works of Art - 20th May 2025
Lot 367
A JAPANESE VASE BY TOKUDA YASOKICHI III/ MASAHIKO (1933-2009)
Estimate £300 - £500 | Hammer £353
Inc. Buyers Premium
Description
A JAPANESE VASE BY TOKUDA YASOKICHI III/ MASAHIKO (1933-2009)
HEISEI ERA (1989-2019)
20.5cm. (2)
The ovoid body rising to a thin neck and a flared rim, decorated with a streaked deep blue-green glaze transitioning to a darker aubergine tone at the base, raised on a short circular foot, the base signed Kutani Masahiko; together with a tomobako wood box inscribed Tsubo, Kutani Masahiko (A vase, Kutani ware) with the seal Masahiko.
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.