Wazyaku 和山作 – Tokoname 常滑市 – 12.4cm Soft Mokko-gata 木瓜形 Unglazed 無釉 Bonsai Pot

Wazyaku 和山作 – Tokoname 常滑市 – 12.4cm Soft Mokko-gata 木瓜形 Unglazed 無釉 Bonsai Pot

Please note: I purchased this pot for £550 from one of my customers! Yes, I know he was a better salesman than me! A few months later, he tried to buy this pot back for £420. I laugh now, but not so much at the time... 
I will keep this pot to remind me that I am too galable and need to learn not to trust some collectors,,, 

Product Details: Not for Sale!
Region: Tokoname, Aichi Prefecture 常滑市
Kiln: Wazyaku Kiln 和山窯
Potter: Wazyaku 和山作
Style: Handmade Japanese Soft Mokko-gata Bonsai Pot 手作り木瓜形無釉鉢
Seal / Mark: Impressed Wazyaku seal 落款・印あり

A finely handcrafted Japanese bonsai pot by Wazyaku (和山作), produced in Tokoname (常滑), one of Japan's celebrated Rokkoyo (日本六古窯). Although compact in size, this elegant bonsai pot displays a refined Soft Mokko-gata (木瓜形) silhouette, combining the gentle harmony of a round vessel with the subtle elegance of the traditional Japanese quince form.

The pot features a well-defined projecting lip (口縁) framing an almost imperceptible internal rim (内縁). The gently flared walls (外反り) are divided by four descending vertical ribs (縦筋), creating a graceful architectural rhythm before flowing into an elegant rounded rope-style basal band (丸紐帯). This finely moulded cord-like band delicately encircles the lower body, adding subtle refinement while creating a seamless transition to the feet.

Each descending rib continues naturally into a finely sculpted recessed cloud foot (雲足・落とし足), creating a continuous architectural flow from the rim to the base. The delicately carved cloud feet display elegant scrolling ornamentation inspired by classical Chinese forms, lending the vessel both visual lightness and refined sophistication.

The fine Tokoname clay displays a rich warm chocolate-brown tone with a beautifully smooth matte surface, developing an attractive natural patina (経年変化) that enhances its depth and character. The restrained colour, refined detailing and balanced proportions embody the quiet beauty of shibui (渋い), chowa (調和) and timeless Japanese ceramic craftsmanship.

The underside bears the impressed Wazyaku (和山作) seal together with a single central drainage hole (排水穴), reflecting the practical simplicity and careful execution associated with quality Tokoname bonsai pottery.

External dimensions: 12.4 × 12.4 × 5.3 cm

Internal dimensions: 10.2 × 10.2 × 4.2 cm

Condition: Excellent!

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About the Potter – Wazyaku 和山作

Wazyaku (和山作) is a Tokoname potter whose work reflects the enduring traditions of Tokoname-yaki (常滑焼), with an emphasis on elegant proportions, refined detailing and practical bonsai cultivation. His pottery combines classical Japanese and Chinese influences, producing containers that are both visually balanced and highly functional.

Wazyaku's work is characterised by carefully considered architectural forms, harmonious proportions (均整), and finely executed decorative details. Rather than relying on elaborate ornamentation, his designs achieve distinction through subtle refinements, including delicately moulded bands, carved feet, and beautifully balanced profiles that enhance the bonsai without overwhelming it.

Collector's Note / コレクターズノート

This refined Wazyaku (和山作) bonsai pot is an excellent example of how subtle craftsmanship can elevate a compact container into a highly sophisticated work. The elegant Soft Mokko-gata (木瓜形) form, the four descending architectural ribs (縦筋), the beautifully moulded rounded rope-style basal band (丸紐帯), and the finely carved recessed cloud feet (雲足・落とし足) combine to create a pot of exceptional balance and refinement.

Particularly appealing is the continuity of the design, where each descending rib flows naturally into the carved cloud feet, creating an uninterrupted architectural rhythm from the projecting lip to the base. Together with the warm Tokoname clay, refined proportions, and impressed Wazyaku seal, this piece represents a beautifully executed example of traditional Tokoname craftsmanship, making it an outstanding choice for refined shohin bonsai displays and an attractive addition to any serious bonsai pottery collection.