Japan, Japanese Porcelain Vase By Asami Ryuzo (1904–1987)

This porcelain vase, recognizable by its smooth, organic material with subtle deformations, is characteristic of Asami Ryuzo's work in the 1970s and 1980s, where he explored the application of special glazes. Asami Ryuzo (1904–1987) was a famous Japanese ceramicist from Kyoto. He was born into the Asami Gorosuke family of potters. After the early deaths of his father and older brother, Ryuzo was raised by his grandfather, Asami Gorosuke II, who taught him the family art. Ryuzo graduated in design from the Kyoto School of Fine Arts in 1923 and continued his studies in Western painting at the Kansai Academy of Fine Arts. His work quickly gained recognition, winning his first prize at the Teiten Exhibition in 1929. Throughout his career, he received numerous honors, including the prestigious Ministry of Education Prize in 1964 and the Kyoto City Order of Cultural Merit in 1977. He also played a key role in founding the Hakushokukai group and served as president of the Japan Contemporary Art and Crafts Association. The Hakushokukai group, founded in 1951 by ceramicists such as Asami Ryuzo, aimed to promote and experiment with new techniques and styles in ceramics. Their main goals included innovation and the integration of new methods of creation while respecting the traditions of Japanese ceramics. The group emphasized inlay and the use of new glazes, seeking to create works that combined ancient traditions with modern sensibilities. Some of his works are exhibited in museums such as the Tokyo Museum of Modern Art. Original signed box