Kamiya Ryuen 神谷龍園 – 常滑市 Tokoname – 13.5cm - 長方鉢 - 無釉 NOT FOR SALE!

Kamiya Ryuen 神谷龍園 – 常滑市 Tokoname – 13.5cm Rectangular 長方鉢 – Unglazed 無釉

I know I paid too much for this little pot, but it's worth it!

Product Details:
Region: Tokoname 常滑市
Kiln: Ryuen Kiln 龍園窯
Potter: Kamiya Ryuen 神谷龍園
Style: Handmade Japanese Rectangular Unglazed Bonsai Pot 手作り長方無釉鉢
Seal / Mark: Impressed Ryuen seal 落款・印あり

A finely handcrafted Japanese bonsai pot by Kamiya Ryuen (神谷龍園), produced in Tokoname (常滑), one of Japan's renowned Rokkoyo (日本六古窯). This elegant rectangular composition reflects Ryuen's distinctive architectural style, combining refined proportions with exceptional precision in a beautifully balanced shohin-sized container.

The pot features a refined projecting rim (口縁) surrounding a subtle internal rim (内縁). The gently flared walls (外反り) descend gracefully towards a beautifully executed recessed framed panel (額縁・角窓意匠) on each side, its stepped angular corners adding depth and sophistication while maintaining the clean geometric character of the design.

Encircling the lower body is an elegant double-rounded lower basal band (二重丸腰帯) that flows harmoniously around the vessel before transitioning into four recessed outward-flared feet (落とし外開き足). The feet project subtly beyond the body, creating a broader, more stable stance while reinforcing the pot's architectural balance and refined appearance.

The rich dark chocolate Tokoname clay displays a beautifully smooth satin surface with excellent tsuchi-aji (土味), showcasing the natural character of the clay and the meticulous finishing for which Kamiya Ryuen is highly respected. The restrained elegance of the design expresses the quiet beauty of shibui (渋い) together with a strong sense of chowa (調和), allowing the bonsai to remain the principal focus.

The underside bears Ryuen's impressed square seal (落款) and is finished with two drainage holes (排水穴), executed with the same precision evident throughout the pot and reflecting the high standard of Tokoname craftsmanship.

External dimensions: 13.5 × 10.3 × 4.1 cm
Internal dimensions: 11.6 × 8.4 × 3.0 cm

Condition: Excellent!

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About the Potter – Kamiya Ryuen 神谷龍園

Kamiya Ryuen (神谷龍園) was born in Tokyo in 1929 and became one of the most highly regarded modern Tokoname bonsai potters. The son of a temple carpenter and sculptor, he brought an architectural approach to ceramic design, becoming renowned for producing many of his bonsai pots from a single block of clay. This demanding technique resulted in vessels of exceptional strength, precise proportions, and outstanding structural integrity.

His work is recognised for its elegant architectural forms, refined feet, carefully balanced proportions, and understated aesthetic, making his bonsai pots highly sought after by collectors and bonsai professionals worldwide. Kamiya Ryuen passed away in 2012, leaving a lasting legacy within the Tokoname ceramic tradition.

Collector's Note / コレクターズノート

This refined Kamiya Ryuen bonsai pot beautifully demonstrates the qualities that have made his work so highly respected among collectors. The elegant 額縁・角窓 framed panels, graceful flared profile, finely executed double rounded lower basal band (二重丸腰帯), and distinctive recessed outward-flared feet (落とし外開き足) combine to create a vessel of remarkable harmony and architectural refinement.

Its rich Tokoname clay, crisp impressed Ryuen seal, and superb craftsmanship exemplify the precision and timeless elegance for which Kamiya Ryuen is celebrated. An outstanding choice for refined shohin or kifu bonsai, this piece also represents an excellent addition to any serious collection of modern Tokoname ceramics.