Vintage Japanese Ceramic Horse Figurine (Uma), Late Showa, 1966-1989 | SKU: 26M-047-1

Vintage Japanese Ceramic Horse Figurine (Uma), Late Showa, 1966-1989 | SKU: 26M-047-1

A sculptural uma (horse) figurine in celadon turquoise glaze, signed by the artist and stored in its original wood box

An uma figurine is a handcrafted ceramic horse sculpture rooted in Japanese folk art and zodiac tradition -- the horse (uma) is the seventh sign of the Japanese eto (zodiac cycle) and has long been associated with vitality, freedom, and good fortune. This striking piece, likely produced during the Late Showa period, displays a boldly stylized silhouette: the elongated neck, simplified limbs, and flat rectangular base reflect the influence of mingei (folk craft) aesthetics that flourished in postwar Japan. The body is finished in a matte celadon turquoise glaze with natural variation and earthy underfiring visible at the unglazed base rim -- hallmarks of an intentionally hand-finished, artisan piece. The underside bears a handwritten artist's signature mark in ink, and the wooden tomobako (fitted storage box) is brushed with the character for "uma" alongside the kiln or artist name, confirming this as a signed, collectible work of vintage Japanese craft.

In a modern home, this ceramic horse sculpture works beautifully as a living room accent on a console table, bookshelf, or mantelpiece -- its sculptural silhouette and cool turquoise tone complement Japandi style, wabi-sabi aesthetic, and minimalist decor equally well. The compact scale makes it ideal for a home office desk display or as a curated shelf piece alongside other vintage Japanese ceramics. It would also make a unique gift for collectors of Japanese vintage figurines, zodiac enthusiasts, or anyone who appreciates handcrafted Japanese studio pottery.

• Origin: Japan
• Era: 1966-1989 (Late Showa)
• Material: Stoneware ceramic with matte celadon turquoise glaze; unglazed base; wood tomobako storage box
• Use: Decorative figurine; zodiac horse (uma) ornament; artist-signed ceramic sculpture
• Modern Use: Living room accent or mantelpiece sculpture; home office desk display; unique gift for collectors of vintage Japanese ceramics
• Features: Boldly stylized abstract horse form on flat rectangular plinth base; matte celadon turquoise glaze with natural color variation and surface texture; unglazed cream underside with handwritten artist signature mark in ink; accompanied by original wood tomobako box inscribed with the character for "uma" and artist/kiln name
• Dimensions: 6"W x 2 1/2"D x 9"H
• Condition: Excellent

A beautifully signed piece of vintage Japanese ceramic art -- the uma horse figurine brings sculptural elegance and zodiac symbolism to any modern living space.

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.