Antique Japanese Studio Pottery Vase by Kawamura Matajiro (1930–2006) – Incised Yohen Tsubo

Add a profound statement of traditional Japanese craftsmanship to your collection with this exceptional, authentic piece of vintage studio ceramics. This hand-thrown masterpiece is the work of celebrated master potter Kawamura Matajiro (河村又次郎). Matajiro was the renowned master of the historic Kichuyo (其中窯) kiln, nestled in Kamakura, carrying forward the deeply revered artistic legacy and philosophy of the legendary multi-disciplinary artist and gourmet, Kitaoji Rosanjin.

Ceramic Style & Artistry 

This vessel is a classic example of a **Yōhen Chōmon Tsubo (窯変彫文 壺)**—a heavily textured, wide-bodied jar showcasing meticulously hand-incised geometric linear patterns. The surface treatment exhibits a breathtaking display of **Yōhen (kiln-mutation) effects. Fired in a traditional wood-burning kiln, the natural ash glaze interaction creates an organic, multi-tonal earthy finish featuring rich, crackled cream, warm amber tones, and dark iron-rich undertones that shift beautifully under natural light.

Collector Markings & Authenticity 

• Artist Signature: Individually hand-signed by the artist with an incised maker's mark on the unglazed base. 
• Tomobako Box: Accompanied by its original, custom-made paulownia wood presentation box (Tomobako). The lid features traditional hand-brushed kanji calligraphy denoting the title and signature, alongside the artist’s official red vermilion seal stamp. Includes original cotton tying ribbons. 

Specifications 

• Artist: Kawamura Matajiro (河村又次郎, 1930–2006) 
• Kiln Origin: Kichuyo Kiln, Kamakura, Japan 
• Material: Professional Kamakura Stoneware Clay 
• Dimensions: Approximately 20 cm in height (please refer to listing images for complete structural measurements) 

Condition Report 

Offered in excellent vintage condition. This studio piece is free of chips, structural cracks, hairline damage, or post-production restorations. Any texture pooling, colour variations, or tiny pitting are completely natural firing traits inherent to wood-kiln professional stoneware.

Shipping & Packaging

Due to the fragile and highly collectible nature of Japanese studio pottery, this piece will be securely double-boxed alongside its original signed tomobako.