Description

Xandre Store Exclusive: Jiro Kinjo Okinawan Yachimun Masterpiece

Celebrating the Legacy of Okinawa's First Living National Treasure

Discover an exceptional piece of traditional Okinawan Yachimun (やちむん) pottery attributed to Jiro Kinjo (金城次郎, 1914–2004), Okinawa's first Living National Treasure (人間国宝). Crafted from natural Okinawan clay, this handcrafted ceramic vase features the energetic, hand-carved fish imagery (魚紋 / Fish-mon) that established Kinjo as an icon of modern Japanese ceramics.

Jiro Kinjo (金城次郎) — Fish Motif Ceramic Vase (魚紋 花瓶)

The iconic fish motif (魚紋) is the ultimate hallmark of Jiro Kinjo’s artistic vocabulary, symbolizing Okinawa’s deep maritime connection through bold, dynamic lines and playful movement.

Crafted in a bold, tapered cylindrical silhouette with tactile wheel-thrown ridging along the lower body, the vessel features expressive hand-incised fish and sweeping water wave details carved directly into the clay. Framed by cobalt-indigo glazed border lines, the central motif highlights detailed carving over natural warm beige stoneware, anchored by a dark glazed upper rim and a rich, amber-brown iron glazed base.

Highlights

1. Living National Treasure Heritage: Attributed to Jiro Kinjo (金城次郎, 1914–2004), Okinawa's premier master potter.
2. Iconic Fish Motif (魚紋): Features Kinjo's signature hand-incised fish with detailed scales, fins, and swirling water wave imagery.
3. Rich Multi-Tone Glaze Palette: Draped dark upper rim, double cobalt-indigo framing lines, and earthy iron-brown glazed base.
4. Artist Inscribed Base: Features Jiro Kinjo's characteristic incised mark ("次") etched into the underside base.
5. Tactile Wheel-Thrown Texture: Complemented by prominent horizontal ribs near the foot and a natural stoneware texture.

Specifications

1. Artist: Jiro Kinjo (金城次郎, 1914–2004) | Living National Treasure (人間国宝)
2. Origin & Craft Tradition: Okinawan Yachimun Pottery (やちむん), Okinawa Prefecture, Japan
3. Category / Form: Jiro Kinjo Yachimun / Ceramic Flower Vase / Collector's Fine Craft
4. Motif: Fish & Wave Motif — 魚紋 (Fish-mon)
5. Technique & Materials: Wheel-thrown ceramic clay with hand-incised carving and mineral glazes
6. Color Palette: Warm beige stoneware, dark iron brown, cobalt indigo, and deep amber glaze
7. Markings: Jiro Kinjo incised artist mark ("次") present on the bottom underside base
8. Quantity: One (1) individual ceramic vessel

Provenance & Physical Attribution

The underside of the vessel features Jiro Kinjo's signature incised mark ("次") etched directly into the clay base prior to firing. The deep carvings, cobalt framing bands, and pooled iron glazes showcase traditional Kinjo studio firing techniques, where mineral-rich glazes react uniquely under high heat.

Note: Attribution is based on physical markings, studio technique, and stylistic features. Minor variations in glaze pooling, pinholes, firing specks, and surface texture are natural characteristics

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.