Light Grey Vase by Takahito Okada

Takahito Okada is a ceramicist based in Mashiko, north of Tokyo.

He is known for his work in carved ceramics, using techniques such as zougan and kakiotoshi.

After a period training with the great post-war Japanese potter Tatsuzō Shimaoka, he established his own kiln in 2002, from where he has built a strong following in the Japanese ceramics scene.

Okada’s work it based on a patient geometry, with each piece patterned by hand using his pottery tool.  The zougan technique is one synonymous with Okada’s mentor Shimaoka, and applies slip as an inlay to lines or forms carved from the clay surface.  Kakiotoshi meanwhile carves directly into a layer of slip applied to the surface.

This vase is an example of kakiotoshi, and is completed in a circular pattern typical of Okada.

14.5cm high, and 11cm at its widest point, the 6cm diameter hole at its peak, allows for a small bunch of flowers within a striking ornament.  It weighs 475g.