Heian Tofukuji 

Recognised as the pinnacle of Japanese design and aesthetics in bonsai pottery, The late Heian Tofukuji is arguably Japans most popular potter of all time. 

Tofukuji lived a hard life, and even had to share the kilns of others. By research and experimentation under these unfavourable conditions however, he managed to create such variety and excellence of form, and incredible glazes. Many current day potters try to emulate his work, including amongst other; Bushuan, Ikkou, and Heian Kosen.
It was not until after his death that his work attracted recognition and real legend status. Nowadays, the values continue to rise, as the pots become more scarce and collectable, and are revered as a practical use famous pot.
Date of birth: April 25, 1890 (Meiji 23)

Glazed pots.           Click here for Heian Tofukuji Unglazed pots'

D541

This shohin rectangle has great form and a sublime, almost translucent green glaze that reveals a very light crackle. The various hues of greens, browns and almost yellow combine to make quite a lustrous glaze.
Bears the 'trident leaf' hanko
12.4cm

D1290

A round semi cascade pot with a band of rivets to the rim ad to the base and recessed decorated feet. This piece is finished in a thick, golden brown running glaze. In parts thinner glaze reveals the clay beneath and a contrasting reddish brown. 
​Bears the 'trident leaf' hanko
​12.3cm wide

D1756

A wonderful shohin rectangle with interesting feet and a thick basal band in relief. From the floating climbing kiln, is produced this incredible buckwheat glaze of browns, greens and white - with transparency and a subtle fine crackle. 
Twin stamped with Tofukuji's sign & seal.
 13.5cm

D1542

This superb oval is made with a courser clay than others, and has a stunning oribe glaze which, to the rim, has silver crystal inclusions.
The pot is double stamped, however with the hanko, there is an addition! It is a Tofukuji stamp, but two round parts have been purposefully filled in with a dot. This obvious change to the Tofukuji stamp indicates that this is in fact not made by Tofukuji, but was made in 'homage' to him. It was we believe made by Echizen Hosui, a superb potter in his own right. 
21.2cm

 


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