Description
This mame bonsai pot by Tani Ranzan is a remarkable example of artistry in miniature scale. It features an intricately handcarved dragon motif, a level of detail that is exceptionally difficult to achieve in such a small size. The pot was created using the kurinuki technique — a traditional Japanese ceramic process that involves carving out a solid block of clay to form the vessel.
The kurinuki approach emphasizes sculptural expression: instead of building the form, the artist slowly removes clay, allowing the final shape to emerge intuitively. This results in a pot with organic lines, natural asymmetry, and surfaces that proudly display the marks of the carving process. The dragon design adds both symbolic depth and striking visual interest, making the pot not just a container, but a true piece of art.
Perfect for mame bonsai, shohin accents, or as a collector’s item, this work demonstrates why Tani Ranzan is highly regarded for his kurinuki pieces. Each of his carved pots is unique, blending tradition, creativity, and technical mastery in clay.
Measurements:
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Outer (l × w × h): 5,5 × 4,5 × 2,0 cm
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Inner (l × w × h): 4,4 × 3,4 × 1,4 cm
Features:
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Artisan: Tani Ranzan
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Technique: Kurinuki (hollowing from solid clay)
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Design: Handcarved dragon motif
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Size: Mame bonsai pot
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Finish: Unglazed, carved clay
About Tani Ranzan
Tani Ranzan is widely recognized for his mastery of the kurinuki technique, a deeply traditional Japanese method of creating ceramic vessels by hollowing out solid blocks of clay. His work is celebrated for its bold textures, organic asymmetry, and the way it emphasizes the process of carving as an art form in itself. Each pot is distinct, bearing the traces of handwork that reveal the potter’s vision and skill. By combining sculptural carving with refined motifs, Ranzan has built a reputation for unique and highly collectible bonsai containers, particularly at the small mame and shohin scale.
