Illustrated is a
close-up of a Narumi-Oribe basket form by Mino legend, Hayashi Shotaro (b.
1947). This pot is an early work of
Shotaro and clearly shows the indelible touch and influence of his elder
brother and teacher Hayashi Kotaro (1940-1981). Shotaro spent a seven year
apprenticeship with his brother before striking out and establishing his own
studio/kiln in 1974. This piece demonstrates the traditional ideals passed down
from teacher to student and a continuity of style and design shared by
brothers.
Oribe ware in general
has a whimsical quality to it and this basket is no exception. This practical,
yet entertaining form, is a bit unique to Shotaro, though if you look hard
enough, I think you will find the shape somewhere in antiquity. The spontaneous
and asymmetrical designs animates and
accentuates this form, making for a pleasant visual and functional experience.
Though made early in his career, it is obvious that Hayashi Shotaro has a keen
grasp of form and surface as passed on from the tradition and his brother's
thoughtful and insightful instruction.
"It takes an
endless amount of history to make even a little tradition." Henry James
(1843-1916)
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