NANBAN CHAIRE

Illustrated is the absolute embodiment of simplicity; simple form, stream lined in every way with even the minute and superfluous details left at the wheel. Capped with a lid of the purest white, the appearance is the result of a symbiotic relationship between clay and the well controlled atmosphere within the wood fired kiln. This relationship makes for a rather sublime surface that looks like an intentionally decorated landscape of subtle textures and color variations. This chaire was made by Kabasawa Kenji who after completing his study with Nakazato Takashi set up his studio near Mount Akagi in Gumma Prefecture where he specializes in the exotic surfaces of Nanban-yaki (carbonized unglazed high-fire pottery), kohiki and mishima wares. I was struck by the honesty and perfection of this chaire and its total adherence to function with a surface that is both ancient in appearance and abstract in its presentation, how does it get any better?