Vases: The Key to Enhancing or Diminishing a Flower's Beauty

The "Vase Research Institute" was established with the aim of rediscovering and presenting the essential value of vases by imbuing them with contemporary sensibility. AMKK, which elevates the value of flowers and plants through the creations of floral artist Azuma Makoto and their artistic expression, has partnered with MARUWAKAYA, which has honed its product development by analyzing and reconstructing diverse traditions, wisdom, and techniques nurtured in Japan. Together, they plan to roll out various projects under the banner of the "Vase Research Institute."

The partner for the first project is the esteemed Tsuji family kiln of Arita. Historically serving the Imperial Court and producing vessels exclusively for the Emperor and Imperial family, the Tsuji kiln is known as a "legendary kiln." Among their masterpieces, the "Vase Research Institute" has chosen to feature the exceptionally striking large vase, "Shikunshi" (Four Gentlemen).

Fifteenth Generation Tsuji Jūroku's Unprecedented Fusion of Past and Present

This large vase, originally depicting four plants representing each season (spring orchid, summer bamboo, autumn chrysanthemum, winter plum), has been reinterpreted. Four contemporary seasonal plants (spring orchid, summer passionflower, autumn pitcher plant, winter violet) have been added to the design, creating a new concept of "Eight Gentlemen" instead of the traditional "Four Gentlemen."

Azuma Makoto, who took the lead in selecting the flowers, commented, "I deliberately didn't focus on the symbolic meanings, but chose plants that would make a beautiful picture. Perhaps these four might be replaced by different plants in the future. Isn't that freedom and flexibility what defines 'now'? I also feel that the fixed concept of the Four Gentlemen is insufficient for navigating the complexities and diversities of modern life."

A Large Vase Adorned with Vibrant Blue Flowers of Subtle Elegance

The subtle blue flowers, rendered with ancient, delicate brushwork, imbue the vase with eternal life and vibrant energy.—This ultimate, one-of-a-kind vase appeared before the public for one night only, in the land of Arita where it was created, on the evening of July 4th.

The installation took place at the Izumiyama quarry in Arita Town, Saga Prefecture, where 400 years ago, a group of potters led by Yi Sam-pyeong discovered porcelain stone and succeeded in firing Japan's first porcelain. It is from this very stone that early Imari ware, with its mellow glaze, and the highly coveted antique Imari ware for collectors, were born.

Although mining is currently suspended and no longer takes place, visitors can observe the quarry from beyond a fence. At the Ishiba Shrine in Izumiyama, there is a monument to the Korean gods and a statue of Yi Sam-pyeong.

Hirotoshi Maruwaka, who served as the bridge between Azuma Makoto's vision and the fifteenth generation's craftsmanship, stated before the completed "Eight Kunshi," "Rather than imposing modern designs, we carefully considered what to preserve and what to change, with the utmost respect for the Tsuji family's tradition. The result is a new masterpiece that connects to Arita's future."