Handcrafted Vase from Arita – A Masterpiece of Yōhen Art

This extraordinary piece of ceramic art was created in 1972 in Arita – one of Japan’s most traditional porcelain regions. The artist, Kusuo Baba, is highly regarded among connoisseurs and has already retired, which makes this work a particularly valuable and unique piece.

At the heart of this creation lies the fascinating Yōhen technique: during the firing process, unexpected color gradients and patterns emerge through the chemical reaction between the glaze and the flame – making each piece an absolute one-of-a-kind.

This intense red coloration occurs when copper in the glaze reacts with the reducing atmosphere in the kiln. The result is a spectacular play of colors – from delicate ruby red to dark, almost mystical crimson tones. It is said that this red resembles that of rare ruby gemstones – an effect achievable only through the finest materials and a precisely controlled firing process at 1300 °C.

What makes this vase especially captivating is its harmonious play of colors, transitioning gently from deep violet through warm red tones to radiant turquoise and light blue hues. Depending on the lighting, the glaze’s effect changes – sometimes glowing with vibrant intensity, other times receding into subtle elegance. This dynamic interplay makes the vase a truly unique work of art.

From Arita (Saga Prefecture)

Arita is located in the western part of Saga Prefecture (Kyūshū), near the border with Nagasaki Prefecture.
Covering an area of about 65 km², approximately 70% of the region consists of forested hills and mountains. The Arita River flows through the town and eventually empties into the sea near Imari.