Handcrafted Kutani Vase By Hiroshi Shibata (柴田 博)

Experience the luminous beauty of Kutani ware through this refined porcelain vessel by Hakuhou Kiln (博峰窯).

Created using the traditional yusai (glazed color) technique, layers of translucent color overlap gracefully across the surface, producing remarkable depth, brilliance, and a glass-like transparency unique to high-temperature Kutani firing. The flowing blue tones and iridescent hues shift beautifully with changing light, giving the piece an ethereal and contemplative presence.

While referred to as a vase, this work is designed primarily as a sculptural ceramic artwork — an elegant statement piece that embodies the artistry, craftsmanship, and enduring tradition of Japanese porcelain. Whether displayed alone or incorporated into a curated interior, it reflects the refined aesthetic of collectible Kutani ware.

Each piece is individually handcrafted in Japan, preserving the rich heritage and artistic spirit of traditional Japanese ceramics.

Hakuhou Kiln (博峰窯) – Ceramicist Profile

Hiroshi Shibata (柴田 博)

Hiroshi Shibata, a distinguished ceramic artist of Hakuhou Kiln, was born in Ishikawa Prefecture in 1950 (Showa 25). He studied under renowned masters including Takeshi Yamachika, former president of the Creative Art Association, and Fujio Kitade, a council member of the prestigious Japan Art Exhibition (Nitten) and former president of Kanazawa College of Art.

Widely recognized for his mastery of Kutani ware and luminous glazing techniques, Shibata’s works blend traditional craftsmanship with a refined contemporary sensibility.

Notable Achievements

• Selected for the 11th Japan New Craft Exhibition
• Twice acquired by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan
• Debuted in the 21st Nitten Exhibition, followed by 14 consecutive selections
• Received the Excellence Award at the 13th Traditional Kutani Ware Craft Exhibition, with his work permanently preserved in the Kutani Ware Museum
• Awarded one Grand Prize, six Excellence Awards, one Encouragement Award, and two Technical Awards
• Three works permanently preserved in the Ishikawa Prefectural Museum of Art

Professional Roles

• Served as a juror for the Japan New Craft Artists Association
• Active member of the Nitten Exhibition as a Kaiyu (“Friend of Nitten”)
• Part-time lecturer at Kanazawa Gakuin University

Current Work

Hiroshi Shibata continues to create exceptional ceramic works at his studio in Nomi City, Ishikawa Prefecture, where he carries forward the artistic legacy and innovation of Kutani ware.

Details

• Size: D8.2 cm × H19 cm (3.22" × 7.48")
• Material: Porcelain / Kutani ware
• Origin: Japan

Please note that due to the handmade nature of this piece, slight variations in shape, glaze, and color may occur. These subtle differences are considered part of the unique character and beauty of authentic handmade Japanese ceramics.