YAMAAKI (山秋窯) – 3rd Generation Kataoka Toshio (片岡俊夫 作) – 常滑 Tokoname – 47.2cm Rectangular Unglazed (長方形 無釉)
Product Details:
Region: Tokoname 常滑市
Kiln: Yamaaki Kiln 山秋窯
Potter: 3rd Generation Kataoka Toshio 片岡俊夫
Description:
A superb vintage Tokoname bonsai pot (常滑盆栽鉢) from the renowned Yamaaki Kiln (山秋窯), crafted by Kataoka Toshio (片岡俊夫), the 3rd generation potter of this esteemed lineage.
This rectangular (長方形 chōhōkei) unglazed pot embodies the clean, balanced aesthetic that defines mid-period Yamaaki works. The design features a stepped wall (段付き側面) with a crisp basal band (下帯) and a slight inner rim (内縁) for added refinement. Its cut feet (切足 kiri-ashi) are precisely executed, creating a subtle lift and elegant shadow line beneath the pot.
Crafted from a fine groggy Tokoname clay (砂目土 suname-tsuchi), the surface shows a soft, metallic sheen with earthy brown-grey tones (土色 tsuchi-iro), typical of Yamaaki’s signature blend. The pot’s texture and firing give it a refined wabi-sabi (侘寂) presence, and it will continue to develop a rich patina (景色 keshiki) over time.
The underside bears the impressed Yamaaki seal (山秋印), verifying authenticity. Functional details include well-positioned drainage and wiring holes (排水穴・針金穴 haisui-ana / harigane-ana), ensuring excellent usability for display or cultivation.
A highly collectible example representing the precision and understated beauty of 1970s–1980s Tokoname craftsmanship.
External dimensions: 47.2cm x 35.7cm x 13.7cm
Condition: Excellent (状態良好).
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Yamaaki, 3rd Generation Potter Katakoa Toshio. The kiln was started by Kataoka Akitsuga and fired by three generations of potters, until it finally went 'cold' in 2011. It was the most productive bonsai pot kiln in Tokoname, fired with gas, which gives those fantastic clay colours mimicking the pots of ancient China. There are a lot of production Yamaaki pots available; those with nail-carved signatures were hand-made by the Kataoka family, and consequently, are more valuable.
