Vintage Japanese Tenmoku-Glazed Stoneware Ichirin-Zashi (Single-Flower Vase), Late Showa (1966-1989) | SKU: 26M-072-1

Vintage Japanese Tenmoku-Glazed Stoneware Ichirin-Zashi (Single-Flower Vase), Late Showa (1966-1989) | SKU: 26M-072-1

A long-necked stoneware vase dressed in a deep tenmoku-style glaze -- handcrafted for ikebana and presented in its original signed wooden box.

A ichirin-zashi (single-flower vase) is a classic form in Japanese ceramic art, designed to hold one or two stems and allow the flower to speak for itself. This striking example features a rounded, egg-shaped body rising into a slender, elongated neck -- a silhouette rooted in Song dynasty Chinese ceramics that Japanese potters admired and reinterpreted throughout the Showa period. The glaze is a deep, near-black tenmoku finish with a subtly mottled surface: a warm reddish-brown texture breaks through the darkness along the neck, while soft silvery pooling on the body catches the light like polished obsidian. This interplay of matte and gloss, dark and light, is a hallmark of wabi-sabi aesthetics -- beauty found in imperfection and quiet depth. The piece comes housed in its original wooden tomobako (presentation box), with calligraphy inscription and a maker's seal, indicating this is a signed artist work of collector-grade quality.

In a modern home, this vintage Japanese ceramic vase makes an effortless statement. Stand a single stem of dried pampas grass or a branch of cherry blossoms inside and place it on a living room shelf or entryway console for an instant Japandi-style focal point. Its narrow neck and compact footprint suit a home office desk or bathroom shelf equally well -- a small object with a commanding presence. The dark sculptural form also works beautifully as a standalone decorative accent without any flowers at all, complementing minimalist decor, mid-century modern interiors, or earthy, organic tablescapes. A compelling gift for collectors of Japanese studio ceramics or anyone who appreciates handcrafted Japanese craft.

• Origin: Japan
• Era: 1966-1989 (Late Showa)
• Material: Stoneware with deep tenmoku-style iron glaze; mottled dark brown and black with silvery pooling
• Use: Ikebana single-flower vase (ichirin-zashi); decorative display vessel
• Modern Use: Bud vase for dried or fresh stems; living room or entryway decorative accent; standalone sculptural object on a desk or shelf
• Features: Globular body with tall slender neck; textured reddish-brown mottling along the neck contrasting with a smoother glazed body; unglazed foot ring revealing stoneware clay body; includes original signed wooden tomobako presentation box with calligraphy inscription and maker's seal
• Dimensions: 4 1/2" Diameter x 11"H
• Condition: Excellent

A beautifully glazed piece of vintage Japanese studio ceramics -- where tenmoku darkness and wabi-sabi quiet come together in a single, sculptural form.

We use professional studio lighting to highlight the natural character of the wood. As a result, the tone may appear slightly warmer than under natural daylight.

All vintage items are sold as-is. Each piece may exhibit signs of age, including scratches, wear, or minor imperfections. These are not considered defects but natural evidence of the item’s authenticity and age.