Japanese soliflore vase in ceramic Ofuke from Seto, signed Katō Tsuneji.

Vase with a long neck made of Seto stoneware, created by the Japanese potter Katō Tsuneji (加藤常次). He worked in Akazu, near Nagoya, the historical centre of Ofuke ceramics (御深井). Ofuke is a pale celadon green ash glaze that was once reserved for kilns serving the lords of Owari. Here, the glaze features a fine intentional crackle (kan'nyū) that catches the light. On the body, broad vertical strokes of cobalt blue are applied with a brush, blending into the glaze like reeds under water. The shape is tall and elegant. The ovoid body has a narrow neck adorned with two small applied buttons. The neck opens into a flared and lobed lip. This is a classic flower vase shape (kabin) for ikebana or for a simple branch. Underneath, the foot is turned. It bears the artist's printed seal and reveals the light stoneware. The vase is sold with: Its original paulownia wood box (tomobako). The lid is hand-calligraphed with "御深井 花瓶" (Ofuke flower vase), signed and sealed with the artist's red stamp. The box retains its original ribbon. The printed presentation sheet from the artist (shiori), featuring text about the clay, glaze, and firing, along with the address of the workshop in Seto. This is a complete and authentic set, sought after by enthusiasts of Japanese ceramics. Dimensions. Height: 21 cm. Width: 12 cm. Condition. Very good condition. There are no chips, cracks, or restorations. The crackle in the glaze is original and part of the decoration. The box and sheet show slight signs of use and age-related creases. Information. Artist: Katō Tsuneji (加藤常次) Provenance: Seto (Akazu), Aichi Prefecture, Japan. Period: Late Shōwa era, around 1970–1990. Material: Glazed stoneware, Ofuke glaze, and cobalt blue. Colours: Celadon green, blue. Style: Japanese ceramics, mingei / wabi.