Black Tenmoku vase by Naosaku

Tanba black Tenmoku vase - Naotake Masamoto

Height 27.5 cm x diameter 10 cm

The profound radiance of the black Tenmoku glaze

This piece is completely covered in jet black Tenmoku glaze, which changes color from black to a dull purple depending on the amount of light, softly reflecting the surrounding scenery like the surface of a calm lake. The tiny iron particles scattered on the glossy black glaze twinkle like stars, creating a mysterious world reminiscent of a night view.

The subtle beauty of a cylindrical vase and black glaze

The dignified silhouette, which neatly combines a rounded waist joint in the middle and a pair of trumpet shapes on the top and bottom, is a modern reconfiguration of the classic "tube vase." Eliminating all unnecessary decoration, the beauty is expressed only in the gloss of the black Tenmoku glaze and the contrast of shadows -- it is a design that truly embodies the "aesthetics of subtraction."

Glaze control unique to Masamoto Naosaku

The color of the black Tenmoku glaze changes dramatically with slight differences in firing temperature and reducing atmosphere. Based on his many years of experience, Masamoto Naosaku deliberately fluctuated the peak firing temperature slightly above and below to create a glaze layer that has both a mirror-like luster and a subtle transparency. There is a thin area in the center of the body where the glaze has been scraped off, revealing a faint hint of brown base, giving depth and breathing to the jet black world.

The role of darkness in bringing out the best in flowers

The greatest appeal of the black Tenmoku vase is the effect of darkness, which accentuates the outlines and colors of the flowers placed inside.

In brightly colored flowers , the colors of the petals stand out vividly against the jet black background.

With white or pale-colored flowers , the soft shadows cast by the black glaze give the flower a sense of depth and add a tranquil feeling.

When combined with branches and greenery , the shadows of the leaves reflected on the glossy surface blend the vase and flowers together, creating a cool atmosphere throughout the tokonoma alcove.

Detailed design that supports the beauty of utility

The rim is slightly curved outward, so it holds flowers well and the container (bamboo or copper tube) fits in stably. The base is not a ring base but has a slight tension, so it is stable even when placed on the floor. The center joint of the body makes a natural handle, which is a nice consideration for easy handling when changing the water or resetting.

For your continued use

Before use, add water to prevent excess moisture from getting on the surface of the vessel.

Gently wipe the black glaze surface with a soft cloth, and to remove any noticeable water stains or fingerprints, simply rinse lightly with lukewarm water.

Abrasive sponges or metal scrubbers may cause fine scratches on the glaze surface, causing it to lose its luster.

Masamoto Naosaku's Tanba Black Tenmoku Vase is a flower vase like a stage set, where the subtle light and shadow in the pitch black darkness make the flowers of each season look even more beautiful. It is versatile enough to hold everything from simple tea ceremony flowers to a single Western-style flower vase, and will fill any space with elegant serenity every time you display it. Please cherish it for many years to come, and enjoy the interplay between the deepening luster of the black Tenmoku glaze and the shadows of the flowers.