SHOUZAN Watanabe (渡辺松山) – 常滑 – 49.4cm Rectangular, Unglazed (無釉長方鉢)
Product Details:
Region: Tokoname 常滑市
Kiln: Shouzan Kiln 松山窯
Potter: Watanabe Shouzan 渡辺松山
Description:
A vintage Japanese bonsai pot (盆栽鉢) by the respected Tokoname potter Watanabe Shouzan (渡辺松山). Crafted in a refined rectangular form (長方鉢, chōhō-bachi), this unglazed (無釉, muyū) piece exemplifies the understated beauty and functional precision of Tokoname ware (常滑焼, Tokoname-yaki).
The pot features gently flared walls (反り, sori), a softly rounded lip (口縁, kōen) with a defined raised rim, and recessed cut block feet (切足, kiri-ashi) that give the form both poise and stability. The clay (土, tsuchi) is fine and slightly groggy, showing a warm earthy tone that enhances its shibui (渋い) simplicity.
Over time, the surface has developed a refined patina (景色, keshiki), further deepening its wabi-sabi (侘寂) presence. The underside bears the impressed mark “松山造” (Shouzan-zō, “Made by Shouzan”), and features perfectly aligned drainage and wiring holes (水抜き穴・針金穴, mizunuki-ana / harigane-ana)—a hallmark of Shouzan’s meticulous craftsmanship.
This piece embodies the timeless Tokoname aesthetic: restraint, balance, and quiet strength.
External Dimensions: 49.4 × 47.5 × 11.5 cm
Internal Dimensions: 41.8 × 30.0 × 9.2 cm
Condition: Excellent (極上品).
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Shozan Watanabe (一山荘) was a master bonsai potter based in Tokoname, Japan — one of the country’s most historically significant ceramic centres. Active primarily in the mid to late 20th century, Shozan was part of the postwar generation of artisans who upheld and refined classical Japanese bonsai aesthetics. His work is especially admired for its strong, symmetrical forms and the quiet elegance of his unglazed clay surfaces. Each piece marked “一山荘作” (Ichizansō saku) reflects his deep respect for tradition and functional beauty.
Collector’s Comment:
Large unglazed rectangular works by Watanabe Shouzan are increasingly sought after among collectors for their balance of strength and refinement. The clay tone and proportion on this example are particularly elegant—an ideal showcase for a mature conifer or deciduous bonsai. A highly desirable piece representing the peak of mid- to late-Tokoname craftsmanship.
