Bizen-yaki Vase by Taisetsu Sueishi | 21 cm

This Japanese Bizen-yaki vase was created by Taisetsu Sueishi (末石泰節), a ceramic artist from Bizen in Okayama Prefecture.

The vase has a strong, almost sculptural form, combining a rounded body with a narrower, subtly angular upper section. Its surface displays grey-green, brown and warm earthy tones, with areas shaped by flame and natural ash during firing.

A defining characteristic of Bizen-yaki (備前焼) is that it is traditionally fired without an applied glaze. Its variations in colour, sheen and texture develop directly in the kiln, where clay, flame, ash and the position of the object during firing combine to create the final surface. As a result, every piece develops its own individual character.

Taisetsu Sueishi was born in Bizen in 1953. After studying at the Okayama Prefectural Ceramics Center, he briefly worked at the prefectural industrial research institute in 1975. That same year, he established his own kiln in Imbe, the historic centre of Bizen pottery production. His work includes flower vessels, tableware and other ceramic forms.

The vase comes with its original wooden tomobako. The lid is inscribed 備前 花生 – Bizen hanaike, or Bizen flower vase – together with the signature 泰節 – Taisetsu and a red seal.

A characterful Bizen vase in which the natural qualities of clay, fire and ash form an essential part of the design.

Dimensions

Height: approx. 21 cm
Width: approx. 12 cm

Learn more about the meaning and origins of Bizen ceramics in the Tamashii Guide.

Each vintage piece in our collection carries a story and bears the marks of its past. We kindly ask you to review the photos carefully for an honest impression of its condition and any signs of use.