Japanese Works of Art - 20th May 2026
Lot 608
A JAPANESE VASE BY TOKUDA YASOKICHI III/ MASAHIKO (1933-2009)
Estimate £200 - £400
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Description
TOKUDA YASOKICHI III/ MASAHIKO (1933-2009)
HEISEI, 20TH CENTURY
The pear-shaped body with an elongated neck, covered in an unctuous glaze stopping short of the foot, in deep aubergine with paler blue streaks; the base signed; together with a tomobako (wood box) inscribed Kutani Masahiko and sealed Masahiko, 23cm. (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.