(Shigaraki Rectangular Vase) c. 20th century

Uematsu Eiji made this rectangular vase from Shigaraki clay, sometime after 1949. The muted, earthy tones of this piece give it a grounded, almost architectural feel. It’s like a miniature fortress, with those upright corners acting as silent guardians. I’m really drawn to the surface here; it’s complex and invites a close look. The texture is rough, almost like weathered stone, which hints at the natural processes involved in its creation. You can see how the firing process has kissed the clay, creating those unpredictable patterns and variations in color. Note the speckles, scattered across the surface like stars in a night sky. They add a sense of depth. It reminds me of Lucio Fontana's ceramics, where the process of making becomes a record of transformation. Art isn't just about what we see; it's about the journey of its making, embracing imperfections and finding beauty in the unpredictable.