Bizen Yohen Flower Vase

This Bizen *yohen* (kiln-transmutation) flower vase is a timeless masterpiece by Ken Fujiwara, an artist who combined boldness with meticulous precision. It is characterized by a magnificent *haikaburi* (ash-covered) *yohen* effect achieved through slow firing in an anagama kiln, creating a striking aesthetic that evokes the image of a sun splitting in two. While the deep black of *haikaburi* and the scarlet of the exposed clay are often contradictory, this piece achieves a brilliant harmony between the moist, charcoal-like black and a refined scarlet that highlights the superb quality of the clay. While the vessel as a whole is masterfully formed, its handle attachments are particularly outstanding, a testament to the high level of technical skill that earned Ken Fujiwara the recognition of both Kei Fujiwara and Toyo Kaneshige. Signed wooden box (shiho-san style)
15.3cm (width including handles) × 12.2cm (diameter) × 26.6cm (height) Ken Fujiwara (1924–1977) began his pottery studies in 1946 under his uncle, Kei Fujiwara, and also studied under Toyo Kaneshige and Sozan Kaneshige. Later, he learned table-ware production techniques under Rosanjin Kitaoji in Kamakura, and established his own kiln in 1956. From then on, his work was consistently selected for various exhibitions. In 1970, he devised and built a large Bizen kiln using modern firebricks. He was designated as a Prefectural Important Intangible Cultural Property holder in 1973 and was awarded the Order of the Sacred Treasure, Gold and Silver Rays. Although he was expected to become a leading figure in the future of Bizen pottery, he passed away at the young age of 53.