Handled Vase – Iron Glaze with Ash Deposits by Teiichi Oketani

This handmade ceramic vase was created by the late Kyoto-based potter Teiichi Oketani (second generation), an artist deeply committed to traditional Japanese pottery.

Throughout his life, he devoted himself to the creation of iron-glazed ceramics, refining their expression within the world of traditional tea utensils.

Born in Kyoto in 1935, Oketani inherited his father’s kiln and carried on the techniques of Kyo-ware and Kiyomizu-ware, later succeeding to the name of second-generation Teiichi.

Even amid changing times, he remained steadfast in his beliefs as a ceramic artist, producing works that continue to be cherished by collectors today.

Iron glaze is a traditional ceramic technique originating in ancient China, where iron-rich glazes transform during firing to create deep, expressive surfaces.

Achieving these effects requires extremely precise control of temperature and oxygen levels, making iron-glazed ceramics one of the most challenging techniques to master.

Because conditions inside the kiln are inherently unpredictable, no two pieces are ever the same. Each vase is a truly one-of-a-kind ceramic artwork.

Owner’s Comment

The reddish iron glaze, reminiscent of weathered metal, is softly layered with ash glaze, creating a quiet landscape that embodies the spirit of wabi-sabi.

About the size of a standard 500 ml water bottle, this vase is easy to place and works beautifully in a wide range of spaces.