[Square plate] c. late 20th century

This square plate was made by Shimaoka Ryūta, but we don't know exactly when! Have you ever seen anything quite like it? The way the colors create these wiggly, swooping shapes is really something. The pattern almost reminds me of rows of birds flying in formation, or maybe the tide coming in on the beach. It's all in how you look at it. Now, get up close and see the texture. It looks like Ryūta used some kind of resist technique, maybe wax, to create these creamy white lines on the warm grey surface. Notice how the glaze is thick in some areas, and thinner in others, revealing the natural color of the clay beneath. You can almost feel the artist's hand moving across the plate, guiding the glaze into place. To me, it’s like the physical making of the work remains visible. This piece reminds me a little of Lucie Rie, who also explored the beauty of simple forms and natural materials in her pottery. But Ryūta's work has its own unique energy and playfulness. What do you think?