Blue Kochi Chrysanthemum Arabesque Design Katakuchi by Miyagawa Kosai

Height: 8.0cm Width: 9.0cm x 10.0cm

The "Aokoshi Chrysanthemum Arabesque Katakuchi" is a masterpiece among the works of Miyagawa Kosai, harmonizing traditional and modern beauty. This katakuchi features the "chrysanthemum arabesque," a pattern that has long been considered an auspicious motif in Japan. Chrysanthemum flowers were introduced to Japan as medicinal herbs and are considered an auspicious pattern symbolizing longevity, while arabesque, with its endless vines, signifies prosperity and continuity. This pattern, which was also used as wedding furnishings during the Edo period, is also embodied in the "Aokoshi Chrysanthemum Arabesque Katakuchi," where its spirit is expressed as a decoration with deep meaning.

The history and characteristics of Katakuchi

Katakuchi is a vessel with a spout on one side of the rim, and has been popular in Japan since the Jomon and Yayoi periods. Traditionally, it was used as a sake vessel, and its wide opening makes it ideal for enjoying the aroma of sake. While the "Blue Kochi Chrysanthemum Arabesque Katakuchi" follows the shape of a katakuchi, it is also glazed with a blue glaze and painted using the Kochi technique, giving it great artistic value.

A fusion of Kouchi and Kyo-yaki

"Koshi" refers to Cochinchina, a region surrounding present-day Vietnam, and is a name given by the Chinese dynasty. This technique was introduced from China to Japan, where it developed particularly in Kyoto ware. Miyagawa Kosai's "Blue Koshi Chrysanthemum Arabesque Design Katakuchi" skillfully combines the distinctive deep blue color with an intricate chrysanthemum arabesque pattern, giving the piece a unique presence. This combination of color and pattern has also become beloved as tea utensils, and is often used at tea ceremonies.

The tradition and evolution of Makuzu ware

Even among Kyoto ware, Makuzu ware is known for its rich variety of techniques. It has produced a wide variety of works utilizing techniques such as Ninsei copy, Kenzan copy, overglaze painting, blue and white porcelain, iron painting, Kochi porcelain, and gold lacquer. Makuzu ware has evolved to meet the needs of the times, and is particularly popular among enthusiasts for its use in tea ceremony and sencha tea utensils. The Miyagawa Kosai family boasts a history of approximately 330 years, producing a wide variety of pottery to suit the times. Its history began in Kyoto around 1680, when the first generation Miyagawa Kobee Masakazu began producing pottery. The techniques passed down through the generations are still alive in the "Ao Kochi Chrysanthemum Arabesque Design Katakuchi." This piece combines the vividness of the Ao Kochi porcelain with the traditional chrysanthemum arabesque pattern, creating a contemporary masterpiece that offers new value in its historical context.

Domestic and international evaluation and future

Makuzu ware is highly regarded both in Japan and abroad as a ceramic work that embodies the splendor and elegance of Kyoto. The "Seikouchi Chrysanthemum Arabesque Design Katakuchi" is a particularly outstanding piece, combining traditional techniques with a unique aesthetic. Loved in America, Europe, China, and elsewhere, Makuzu ware has many fans, and there is no doubt that it will continue to convey its charm to even more people in the future.

A conversation with Miyagawa Kosai