Showrooms

Ceramic Tea Bowl with Brilliant Blue Glaze by Toshiko Takaezu

Creator: Toshiko Takaezu
Offered by: Tishu

Description
A glazed ceramic tea bowl (chawan) circa 1960s made by Japanese American artist Toshiko Takaezu (American, 1922 - 2011), whose work was heavily influenced by the Japanese ceramic tradition, aesthetics and philosophy. The hand-built bowl of slightly oval shape is covered with a brilliant cobalt blue glaze intermixed with patches of light brown on cream white background. The glaze pattern reflects the hallmark style by the artist with a free-flowing effect. The contrasting color interaction with each other with random infusion on both the interior and exterior. Prominent blue strokes were brushed horizontally across the exterior body, evoking an image of abstract ink painting. Inside the bowl, a curious crescent mark draws the eye. It might be intentional but mostly like a random effect as a result of the Wabi Sabi principle of how the artist worked with the glaze. There are also spots of areas where glaze skipped the surface, leaving white dots across. The Japanese concept of Wabi-Sabi where perfection is achieved through imperfection is emphasized in this small bowl. The base is glazed and carved with the artist's insignia.
The artist used this particular shade of blue in a series of small pieces such as pots, bowls and plates around 1960s. This bowl was possibly made in that period. See plate 25, 37, 38 and fig 13 in the book "Toshiko Takaezu Worlds Within Noguchi Yale"
The bowl is a from a private collection in New York City.

More Information

Documentation:	Signed
Origin:	United States
Period:	1950-1979
Materials:	ceramic
Condition:	Good. Wear consistent with age and use. Fine condition with minimal shelf wear. Small, scattered dings on base rim as made.
Creation Date:	1960s
Styles / Movements:	Modern, Art Pottery, Mid Century
Patterns:	Abstract, Handmade, Modern
Incollect Reference #:	764910

Dimensions

W.	5 in;	H.	2.25 in;	D.	4.5 in;
W.	12.7 cm;	H.	5.72 cm;	D.	11.43 cm;

Message from Seller:

Tishu, based in Atlanta, GA, offers a diverse collection ranging from Neolithic art to 20th-century collectibles, with a focus on Mid-century design, Japanese and Korean art, Asian textiles, and Contemporary Aboriginal art. Driven by a passion for timeless beauty, the gallery is open by appointment only and offers works that span 5,000 years of history. Reach them at 305-400-0561 or tishu@tishugallery.com.