K ANZAI OBJECT #02 - VASE
USD 750.00 (SOLD)
Artist | Kenta Anzai
Material | Porcelain glazed with black urushi
Origin | Japan
Dimensions | W11.5cm D11.5cm H14cm
Product Number | #0055
Artist Profile | Kenta Anzai is a ceramic artist based in Fukushima Prefecture, Japan. He handcrafts minimalist ceramic pieces inspired by the concept of simplicity.
Anzai studied under Taizo Kuroda, placing him in a distinguished lineage of Japanese artisans. Kuroda was an apprentice to Tatsuzo Shimaoka, the second Living National Treasure from Mashiko, who himself trained under the first, the legendary Shoji Hamada.
Anzai primarily works with porcelain, creating vessels and moon jars that he finishes with a black glaze containing a small amount of urushi lacquer—a traditional Japanese lacquer made from tree sap. While urushi is typically used on wood, Anzai’s use of it on ceramics is a creative departure, echoing techniques from over 5,000 years ago, when it was used in Jomon pottery.
His work reflects the aesthetics of wabi-sabi, embracing imperfection and transience. Each piece takes months to complete, as Anzai carefully sands, polishes, and refines the surface to give it a timeworn appearance. The simple forms of his vessels contrast with their textured, aged surfaces, revealing the deep time and care invested in each creation.