(Shigaraki Rectangular Vase) c. 20th century

Uematsu Eiji made this rectangular vase in Shigaraki, a town known for its pottery, and the work has a kind of rough-hewn, elemental feel. I’m imagining Eiji working with his hands, coaxing this form into being, feeling the cool clay between his fingers, pushing and pulling it into this pleasing, boxy shape. The surface is mottled with browns and grays, and the top has this lovely, drippy glaze—it must have been so satisfying to watch the kiln work its magic, transforming the clay into something new. It has a lovely crusty texture. I think Eiji and other potters are always in conversation with the earth, with fire, with all the potters who have come before, going back centuries. You can really feel that history and the process in this beautiful, humble vase.