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Set of two small Japanese antique pottery vases/Made in 1804/Mino ware

Price:$725.20

$775List Price

About the Item

This is a pair of small Mino ware flower vases, believed to have been crafted in the late Edo period, specifically in the first year of the Bunka era (1804). The inside of the wooden box lid bears handwritten ink inscriptions, including the terms “Bunka Gannen” (first year of Bunka) and “Hanagame” (flower vase), offering strong evidence that these vessels are over 200 years old. Mino ware originates from the Tōnō region of Gifu Prefecture—today encompassing the cities of Tajimi, Toki, and Mizunami—and is one of Japan’s most renowned ceramic traditions, with roots stretching back to the Heian period. Particularly from the Momoyama to Edo periods, Mino kilns gave rise to innovative and expressive styles such as Oribe, Shino, and Ki-Seto ware, playing a crucial role in shaping Japan’s tea ceramic culture. Mino ware is known for preserving tradition while embracing creative freedom, and its legacy continues to inspire contemporary potters. These vases are glazed with “Oribe-yū,” a distinctive green glaze synonymous with Mino ware. The glaze, named after the tea master and warrior Furuta Oribe, is known for its deep, translucent green tones. As the glaze flows and pools, it creates varied shades and intricate patterns of fine cracks (known as kannyū), which evoke serene landscapes akin to traditional ink paintings. Each vase has its own unique expression, allowing one to fully appreciate the charm and spontaneity of handcrafted ceramics. Their soft, rounded silhouettes fit gently in the palm and are pleasingly tactile, combining rustic charm with quiet elegance. The presence of the original wooden box reflects the care with which these vases were preserved over the years. Both vase rims have been skillfully repaired with kintsugi—a traditional Japanese technique of mending pottery with lacquer and gold—highlighting Japan’s aesthetic of embracing flaws and honoring longevity. Water tests show that both vases are generally watertight for normal use. However, on one vase, if filled above a marked red line, a slight seepage may occur. As long as the water level stays below that point, the vase remains perfectly functional for displaying flowers.However, since it is an old item, please do not leave it in water for several days in a row, and make sure to dry it thoroughly after use. Even after two centuries, these vases still quietly radiate beauty and grace. A single seasonal flower placed in one instantly elevates any space, adding elegance and a sense of calm. Their warm presence blends effortlessly with both Japanese and Western interiors. The vivid tones of the Oribe glaze combined with the deep character of antique pottery make this a truly memorable pair. It is rare to find antique vases of this age in such good condition, complete with inscribed box. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or new to Japanese ceramics, this set comes highly recommended. If you would like a video of the pieces, feel free to contact us through the message center, and we will be happy to provide one. Measurements: Left vase: Diameter 8.6 cm × Height 12.6 cm Right vase: Diameter 8.6 cm × Height 13.5 cm Weight: approx. 200g each Item No.: PO 360 [We mainly sell old Japanese items. We've seen tens of thousands of items so far. Taking advantage of that experience, we are posting attractive items here. We are able to do this because we have many years of experience. There are parts of Japan that are familiar to Japanese people but are still unknown to the rest of the world. We will continue to offer products that will allow you to fully experience this feeling.]

Dimensions:
Height: 5.32 in (13.5 cm)Diameter: 3.39 in (8.6 cm)
Sold As:
Set of 2
Style:
Edo (Of the Period)
Materials and Techniques:
Pottery,Glazed,Hand-Crafted
Place of Origin:
Japan
Period:
Early 19th Century
Date of Manufacture:
1804
Condition:
Repaired: Both vase rims have been skillfully repaired with kintsugi—a traditional Japanese technique of mending pottery with lacquer and gold—highlighting Japan’s aesthetic of embracing flaws and honoring longevity. Both vases are generally watertight for everyday use. One vase may show slight seepage if water is filled above a certain point (marked with red), but as long as the water remains below that level, it can be safely used to hold flowers.
Seller Location:
Sammu-shi, JP
Reference Number:
1stDibs: LU5487245897162

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