Double Dragon Vase by Ogawa Bunsai

Width: 21.0cm x 11.0cm Height: 31.0cm

Double Dragon Flower Vase (Sousei Hanare) - Made by Ogawa Bunsai (Kō) VI

A pair of dragonflies flap their wings lightly, beautifully sculpted to spread across both shoulders, as if they have descended from time. The "Double Dragon Vase" by Ogawa Bunsai VI is a beautiful blend of realism and decoration, tradition and playfulness, and can truly be said to be a symbol of "harmony and flight." This work, which combines a bold composition that draws the viewer's eye with a delicate expression, has a unique presence even among contemporary ceramics.

Dragonflies as living forms

The greatest highlight of this piece is undoubtedly the "two dragons" decoration on both shoulders. The three-dimensional, popping-out form is more than just a design; it breathes the rhythm of life into the static material of ceramics. The feathers, decorated with intricate patterns, are at first glance geometric, yet somehow exude the warmth of something handmade, evoking the way dragonfly wings sparkle in the sunlight.

For Ogawa Bunsai, the dragonfly is no coincidence. Familiar with the works of his father, the 5th Bunsai, from an early age, the 6th generation did not inherit the signature color red, but was instead captivated by the color green. Eventually, after encountering a dragonfly, he came to use it as a symbol of his own work.

One day, a dragonfly flew into the garden and landed on her finger as if to speak to her, and the voice of her late father echoed in her heart, saying, "Use it without hesitation." From that moment on, dragonflies began to appear one after another in her works, and this work, "Double Dragon Vase," boasts a sculptural beauty that could be said to be the culmination of her work.

Elegance and humor coexist

Although the overall piece has a slender form, the balance between the waistline and the flared hem is exquisite, giving it a sense of visual stability. The pale brown texture has a rustic feel that evokes the warmth of the earth, while the white ribbon decoration in the center gives the piece a modern impression. The ribbon is engraved with a circular pattern, which can also be interpreted as suggesting themes such as "harmony" and "circle."

At first glance, the form may seem exotic, but the meticulous workmanship and texture of the materials give it a true sense of authentic Kyoto ware, and the Japanese "space" and "white space" create a harmonious whole.

Although the dragonfly wings are arranged symmetrically, each has a slightly different expression, creating a beautiful, natural, and non-mechanical sway. The impression changes from moment to moment depending on the viewing angle, creating a vivid sense of space, as if the moment "a dragonfly is about to take flight" has been captured.

The lineage of Bunsai Kiln and the challenge of the sixth generation

The background to the creation of this "Double Dragon Vase" is the long history of Bunsai Kiln. It has been over 170 years since the first generation, Ogawa Bunsuke, mastered kiln-building techniques in Kyushu and founded the company as "Bunsai" in 1847. The kiln was built in Gojozaka in 1873. Since then, the traditions of Kyoto ware have been passed down through six generations, and the techniques and spirit have been passed down to the present day.

The sixth generation, Ogawa Bunsai (Oki), studied sculpture and then thoroughly re-learned Kyoto pottery techniques, thereby challenging himself to create freer, three-dimensional forms. Without resting on his laurels, he has continued to broaden his horizons, taking on the challenge of the Nitten Exhibition and solo exhibitions, as well as creating everyday vessels and spatial objects, truly embodying the concept of "inheritance and innovation."

"While praying for peace, I will do my best to create what I believe to be beautiful."
The feelings contained in these words are embodied in this "Double Dragon Vase."

Living in connection with nature

Dragonflies have been considered auspicious creatures since ancient times as "kachimushi" (victory insects), and because they live near pure water, they are also symbols of purification and rebirth. This "Double Dragon Vase" is a work that sublimates in one form both respect for nature and a prayer for connecting people.

It exudes a tranquil elegance when placed in a Japanese-style room, and stands out as a modern object in a Western-style room.It is truly a one-of-a-kind vase that transcends space and time.

Two dragonflies unite in the shape of memories and wishes.
The "green spirit" of the sixth generation Ogawa Bunsai has taken shape and taken flight here.