FOUR SEASONS

Illustrated is a Kutani style porcelain vase that we refer to as “the Vivaldi vase” due to its rich decoration showcasing flowers unique to the four seasons along with bold calligraphy in gold in a cartouche adjacent to each respective panel. Made of a pure white porcelain, this vase was then glazed and fired and later covered over in a rich surface of red enamel before gold, purple and blue were applied. The gold was detailed by way of sgraffito that brings that surface to life and adds more depth to the surface. This rather ornate vase is just a perfect blend of old-style Kutani technique and workmanship while showcasing the efforts and innovations of a century’s long tradition. 

This vase was made by Kitade Seiko (b.1926),born in Kaga Prefecture and student and son of Kitade Tojiro, launching his career in earnest when he was selected for the 6th Nitten Exhibition in 1950. Like his father, Seiko adds naturalistic, Kutani inspired devices, designs and decoration to his work which is meticulously crafted and painted where sometimes simplicity rules and others where the surface is densely decorated with complex and well thought out patterning. Working in stark decoration over white porcelain, using cobalt or red pigment as a canvas or the combination of the prior, this octagonal gourd style vase is a wonderful example of his work which is true to the style of his father, Kaga and Kutani while leaving room for his own unique interpretation of all three.