Showrooms

Japanese Ceramic Bowl Makuzu Kozan Utusushi Kenzan

Creator: Kozan Makuzu
Offered by: Tishu

Description
A rare ceramic bowl with over glaze painted decoration by Japanese imperial potter Makuzu Kozan ((1842–1916). Unlike the better known works Kozan made for the expositions in the west and export to the foreign market, this piece exemplifies his work for the domestic market and the tea ceremony. The bowl was made in the so called "Utusushi" Ogata Kenzan (1663-1743), an celebrated Edo painter and ceramicist. Utusushi is loosely translated as "in the spirit of". It is not at all a simple imitation of a master, but a Japanese concept of embracing the spiritual essence of a master while the creator is free to mix in his or her own unique artistic interpretation and flavor.
The bowl was made to hold fruits during the tea ceremony. It has a very distinguished form with a circular lower body morphing into a square upper portion that further opening with flared rim. The surface has a grey glaze onto which Asagao flowers (Japanese morning glory) on the vines were painted in a free and poetic style. White was used for the petals, green for the leaves with touches of gold highlight. Asagao, the symbol of the summer was rendered in the spirit of Ogata Kenzan, and interestingly the shape of the blossom echoes the unique form the bowl. It was likely reserved for the tea ceremony during the summer months.
Under the base, Kozan was signed in black on an white porcelain plaque inlay.
For two similar examples of Kozan's work Utusushi Kenzan, see Page 168-169 of the book: Sekai ni Aisa Reta ya Kimono Miyagawa Kozan Makuzu Ware (Japanese Edition).

More Information

Documentation:	Signed
Origin:	Japan
Period:	19th Century
Materials:	ceramic
Condition:	Good. Wear consistent with age and use. Fine antique condition, minor gilt rubbing lost on the rim as shown.
Creation Date:	1890-1910
Styles / Movements:	Bespoke, Asian, Traditional
Patterns:	Abstract, Asian/Oriental, Florals/Botanical
Incollect Reference #:	399595

Dimensions

W.	7 in;	H.	3.5 in;	Diam.	7 in;
W.	17.78 cm;	H.	8.89 cm;	Diam.	17.78 cm;

Message from Seller:

Our collection ranges from Neolithic Art to 20th century collectible art and design. It spans 5000 thousand years of history and crosses many civilizations and cultures. Our aesthetic strongholds are Mid-century studio design, Japanese and Korean art, Asian Textile Art and Contemporary Aboriginal Art. The diversity is united behind our singular vision to seek for timeless beauty and driven purely by our passion