Tokuda Yasokichi III (1933-2009), Globular vase with narrow upraised mouth, vertical white stripe, and infused kutani glaze in gradations of yellow, green, light blue, indigo, and dark blue, 1997, glazed porcelain, 9 3/8 x 9 5/8 x 9 5/8 in.

Summer Heat
Closing August 23, 2024
39 East 78th St, Suite 401

Joan B Mirviss LTD’s current exhibition, aptly titled Summer Heat, brings together a marvelous selection of ceramics from the gallery.

One such standout is this globular vase by Tokuda Yasokichi III 徳田 八十吉 (1933-2009). Born in Ishikawa Prefecture as the eldest son of Tokuda Yasokichi II, Tokuda learned the traditional methods of kutani glaze preparation and decoration from his grandfather, Tokuda Yasokichi I. At first Tokuda confined himself to traditional style pieces with a modern flavor. However, after 1973, he was prompted by his peers to develop a personal style. He invented a technique that enabled him to control the suffusion of kutani color glazes, creating a starburst effect that is, according to the artist, “somewhat in the manner of modern color-field painters such as Mark Rothko.” Tokuda was designated National Living Treasure in 1997 for porcelain with colored glazes.

Be sure to visit the gallery this month to experience this riveting work in person!

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