Description
Elevate your bonsai collection with this exquisite shohin bonsai pot, handcrafted by renowned Japanese potter Ikko, also known as Kazuhiro Watanabe. This elegant pot features a stunning blue glaze and is entirely handmade showcasing Ikko’s mastery in ceramic artistry. The pot’s oval shape and refined design make it an ideal choice for highlighting the beauty of your shohin bonsai trees.
Features:
- Artisan: Ikko (Kazuhiro Watanabe)
- Design: Oval shape with a smooth blue glaze finish
- Size: Perfect for shohin bonsai trees
- Origin: Crafted in Tokoname, Japan
- Signature: 壱興造記
Measurements:
- Outer (l x w x h): 18,5 x 14,0 x 4,5cm
- Inner (l x w x h): 16,0 x 12,0 x 3,5cm
This Ikko bonsai pot not only serves as a functional container but also as a work of art that enhances the aesthetic appeal of your bonsai display. The pot’s superior craftsmanship and timeless design reflect the rich heritage of Japanese pottery, making it a valuable addition to any bonsai enthusiast’s collection.
About Ikko (Kazuhiro Watanabe):
Born in 1956, currently one of the most active artisans in Tokoname, Aichi Prefecture, a renowned hub for bonsai pots. With over 40 years of ceramic artistry, Ikko trained under his father, Shozan Watanabe, while researching glazes. Around 1978, he began firing small bonsai pots using a gas kiln and established the Ikko Kiln in 1980.
Today, his work primarily focuses on “tatara-style” (slab-built) pots, including glazed pots for small to medium-sized bonsai and glazed trays for medium to large compositions. He exclusively uses 100% Chinese clay for unglazed pots, while for glazed pots, he uses Japanese clay. Renowned for his refined craftsmanship inspired by masterpieces of ancient Chinese pots, he excels in creating bonsai pots tailored to users’ requests and guidance. His small pots are highly popular among enthusiasts for their usability and exceptional quality.
He has received numerous accolades, including the Japan Shohin Bonsai Association Award and the All Japan Shohin Bonsai Association Award. The use of Ikko pots in major exhibitions like the Gafu-ten demonstrates their high esteem among professionals and bonsai enthusiasts.