Description

Xandre Store Exclusive: Kiyomasa Kobashigawa Okinawan Tsuboya Yachimun Masterpiece

Celebrating the Masterful Ceramic Tradition of Tsuboya, Okinawa

Discover an exceptional piece of traditional Okinawan Yachimun (やちむん) pottery crafted by Tsuboya master potter Kiyomasa Kobashigawa (小橋川 清正). Hand-thrown from rich Okinawan clay in Tsuboya, Naha, this spherical ceramic vase displays a deep, lustrous iron glaze and tactile stoneware surface characteristic of classic Tsuboya studio craftsmanship.

Kiyomasa Kobashigawa (小橋川 清正) - Tsuboya Yachimun Round Ceramic Vase (壺屋焼 丸花瓶)

The Tsuboya ceramic tradition is celebrated for its robust forms, iron-rich dark glazes, and functional elegance rooted in Ryukyu folk art heritage. Crafted in a striking spherical profile with a gently rolled rim opening, this vessel exhibits deep metallic iron-black and dark brown glaze tones that pool beautifully over the rounded body. The glossy yet textured glaze treatment reveals natural tonal variations under light, creating depth across its dark ceramic form.

Highlights

1. Tsuboya Master Potter Craftsmanship: Handcrafted by Tsuboya master potter Kiyomasa Kobashigawa (小橋川 清正).
2. Classic Tsuboya Glaze Finish: Rich, glossy iron-black glaze with natural brownish undertones and metallic sheen.
3. Dynamic Spherical Form: Perfectly rounded body with a flared rim opening and wheel-thrown interior texture.
4. Artist Signed Base: Inscribed with Kiyomasa Kobashigawa's signature mark ("清正") etched into the unglazed base recess.
5. Tactile Stoneware Feel: Authentic Okinawan clay body showcasing traditional high-heat firing characteristics.

Specifications

1. Artist: Kiyomasa Kobashigawa (小橋川 清正) — Tsuboya Master Potter
2. Origin & Tradition: Tsuboya-yaki Pottery (壺屋焼・やちむん), Naha, Okinawa Prefecture, Japan
3. Category / Form: Kiyomasa Kobashigawa Yachimun / Round Ceramic Vase / Fine Craft
4. Technique & Materials: Wheel-thrown ceramic clay with hand-applied iron mineral glaze
5. Color Palette: Deep iron black, dark metallic brown, amber undertones, and natural clay base
6. Dimensions (Height x Maximum Diameter x Rim Diameter): Approx. 13.5–15.0 cm (5.3–5.9 in) height x 14.5–16.0 cm (5.7–6.3 in) body diameter x 7.5–8.5 cm (3.0–3.3 in) rim opening diameter
7. Weight: Approx. 750–900 g
8. Markings: Kiyomasa Kobashigawa incised artist mark ("清正") present on the underside base
9. Quantity: One (1) individual ceramic vessel

Studio Craftsmanship & Markings

The underside of the foot ring features master potter Kiyomasa Kobashigawa's signature mark ("清正") etched directly into the ceramic clay before firing. The rich glaze pooling and organic texture reflect traditional Tsuboya firing methods.

Note: Minor variations in glaze flow, micro-pinholes, firing specks, and surface texture are natural hallmarks of handcrafted Tsuboya studio ceramics.

Care & Handling

1. Hand-wash gently using lukewarm water and a soft cloth.
2. Avoid harsh abrasive pads or chemical cleaners to preserve glaze integrity.
3. Not designed for dishwasher or microwave use.
4. Allow the vessel to air dry completely before storing.

Shipping & Collector Guarantee

1. Domestic & Global Shipping: Expertly packaged with specialized protective materials designed for delicate ceramic art.
2. International Orders: Shipped via secure express courier services. Import duties, taxes, and local destination charges are the responsibility of the purchaser.