Large Neriage Fūhakuji Vase

Neriage is a technique that involves kneading together a variety of different colored clays to produce intricate and complex patterns. The technique originated in China, though a few examples could be seen in Japan during the Azuchi-Momoyama period (late 16th to early 17th century). From the outset of his ceramic career, MATSUI Kōsei studied the neriage technique, breathing contemporary life into the art form. For this particular piece, Matsui used a new technique, neriage fūhakuji, that he first introduced in 1987. The impression it creates is of sunlight streaming upon rough and weathered ground left behind by strong, sand-laden winds.