Description

Xandre Store Exclusive - A Heritage Tsuboya Masterwork Connecting Arakaki and Kobashigawa Ceramic Traditions

Basic Information

1. Artist / Master Potter: Isao Arakaki (新垣 勲), 7th-generation Arakaki lineage
2. Studio / Lineage: Arakaki Pottery Studio (新垣製陶所) / Niou Kiln (仁王窯)
3. Origin: Tsuboya, Naha City, Okinawa, Japan
4. Category: Okinawan Yachimun | Fine Art Yunomi | Ryukyu Mingei
5. Form: Hand-thrown teacup / tumbler
6. Craft Tradition: やちむん / 上焼 (Okinawan Jō-yaki)

This distinctive vintage yunomi captures the expressive character of traditional Tsuboya-yaki. Hand-thrown from iron-rich Okinawan clay, the cylindrical body is decorated with deeply incised Gyomon fish motifs, highlighted with cobalt blue, copper green, and vibrant Aka-e red enamel. The gently flared rim, light interior slip, exposed clay foot, and tactile carving create a balance between everyday functionality and Okinawan folk-art character. The piece is particularly notable for its connection to the Arakaki and Niou/Kobashigawa traditions. The 「仁」 mark on the base provides an important identifying feature associated with the Niou lineage.

Tsuboya Heritage

Tsuboya became the central pottery district of Naha following the Ryukyu Kingdom's consolidation of major island kilns in the 17th century. Over the centuries, its masters developed the distinctive forms, motifs, and glazing traditions now associated with Okinawan Yachimun.

The Gyomon fish motif became one of Tsuboya's defining decorative traditions, reflecting Okinawa's maritime culture and associations with abundance and prosperity. The Arakaki and Kobashigawa families were important participants in the preservation and development of this ceramic heritage during the 20th century.

Craftsmanship

1. Senbori carving: Fish designs are incised into leather-hard clay by hand.
2. Aka-e decoration: Traditional red enamel is applied alongside cobalt and copper-green pigments.
3. Multi-stage firing: Decorative colors require careful firing control.
4. Keshō-do interior: Light clay slip creates a smooth interior surface.
5. Hand-thrown form: Natural variations preserve the individual character of the potter's hand.

Collector Significance

1. Historic Lineage: Associated with the Arakaki and Niou traditions of Tsuboya.
2. Master Attribution: Associated with late master Isao Arakaki.
3. Distinctive Mark: 「仁」 Niou lineage mark on the base.
4. Cultural Character: Strong example of Okinawan Mingei aesthetics.
5. Finite Supply: Vintage works from the elder generation of Tsuboya craftsmen are no longer being produced in the same historical context.
6. Provenance: Direct acquisition from the historic kiln/gallery environment on Tsuboya Street, Naha.

Premium Highlights

1. Artist: Isao Arakaki (新垣 勲)
2. Lineage: 7th-generation Arakaki / Niou Kiln tradition
3. Studio: Arakaki Pottery Studio / Niou Kiln, Tsuboya
4. Technique: Wheel throwing, Senbori carving, Aka-e decoration
5. Motif: Ryukyu Fish (Gyomon)
6. Materials: Okinawan clay, mineral pigments, red enamel
7. Mark: 「仁」 Niou lineage mark
8. Estimated Capacity: Approx. 200–250 mL
9. Condition: Pristine vintage / heritage condition
10. Rarity: Finite surviving work from a historic Tsuboya tradition

Curator's Note

"This yunomi captures the tactile essence of Tsuboya pottery. The deeply carved Gyomon fish, vibrant red enamel, and cobalt accents create the unmistakable visual energy of Ryukyu folk ceramics, while the restrained form keeps the piece firmly rooted in everyday tea culture.

Its combination of historic lineage, hand-carved decoration, and surviving Niou mark makes it both a functional vessel and a tangible piece of Okinawan ceramic heritage."

Specifications

Care Instructions

1. Hand wash gently with warm water and a soft sponge.
2. Avoid abrasive cleaners and prolonged soaking.
3. Do not use a dishwasher, microwave, or oven.
4. Dry thoroughly before storage.

Shipping & International Delivery

1. Japan: Insured shipping with protective archival packaging.
2. International: Fully insured delivery available.
3. Import duties, VAT, and local taxes are the responsibility of the recipient.

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