WEATHERED

Illustrated is another old Japanese lock style vase form by Shigaraki potter, Kengo Saeki. I have seen a number of these forms over the years and most are of modest scale, perfect for use and neither too small or too large but what makes this one a bit different is that it is one half scale of most that I have seen previously. What this vase form lacks in size it more than makes up for in attention to detail, character and a wonderful landscape differing on front and back. At first glance it could almost seem like these are two different pots where the one side shows off an archaic, rusted and corroding with areas of ash creating a fine texture while the other side has ash built up in different layers creating green glass along many of the angles created through the design. With each encounter of these vase forms I am reminded of ancient, weathered bronzes of centuries past where time has taken hold and added naturally to the pieces without any fuss or planning, producing an object that no amount of technique and skill alone could have created. As with my previous encounters in photos or in person, I look forward to the next chance meeting with the works of Kengo Saeki.