Yamaaki Kiln, 1st. Gen (Tokoname) - Nanban - 8¾ (22cm)
Yamaaki Kiln, 1st. Gen (Tokoname) - Nanban - 8¾ (22cm)
Formal description:
Informal information:
Jyuedo Shosens nanban pot is based upon a traditional bowl or saucer. It will have been made using a traditional process, which could have been elbow forming, coil building or mould forming. "Nunone" (Cloth-texture) is then applied to the surface, which is an ancient practice from Korea.
A specific design is also applied to the rim, I'm not sure what this would have originally been, perhaps a rope or mould mark. A green slip or wash is applied, as well as red splashes, the splashes are less evident in this example.
Shosens nanban is a fantastic representation of this style, employing ancient traditional techniques to make a pot which is the perfect partner for a Literati or Bunjin conifer, for example, it's perfect for a Scot's Pine.
Practical Notes: These nanban are designed to support a tall Bunjin or Literati tree, this one would work for a tree 1-2ft tall. The pot is shallow, but traditionally the soil is mounded up high. Finally, the pot is quite light, and with a tall tree, the pot needs to be secured to it's support or disaster will ensue with even a light breeze, bungee cord over the top or a hidden hook system will work.
Jyuedo Shosen - real name "Katakoka Akitsuga" started the Yamaaki kiln, thus his pots are known as 1st generation Yamaaki. The kiln was fired by three generations of potters, until it finally went 'cold' in 2011. Jyuedo Shousen passed away in 1990, this pot is between 34 and 100 years old.
Condition: Possibly unused. Small chip to bottom of one drainhole, otherwise excellent.