Flower Vase [Pine-Bughs]

This piece features a design by Chitojin, a celebrated artist from Imari Tōen. Born in Kyoto, Chitojin initially aspired to become a traditional Japanese painter. Though his artistic talents went largely unrecognized in that field, he eventually turned to ceramics, where he pursued his creative vision with unwavering dedication and without compromise.

His journey was neither easy nor smooth—but his unshakable pride and conviction as a true artist continue to live on in the craftsmanship of Imari Tōen’s artisans. His spirit is deeply embedded in every piece they create.

The original gosu (cobalt pigment) used here is blended according to a color sample developed by Chitojin himself. The brushwork, especially in elements like the trunks of pine trees, features his signature lines—expressive and full of contrast, reflecting his unique artistic touch.

One of the most distinctive techniques used is shibori-dami, where gosu is absorbed into a special brush and carefully squeezed out while the vessel is tilted by the artist’s free hand. After the pigment pools in place, it is gently absorbed back with the brush to create subtle gradations. This process requires a finely tuned sense of control, developed only through years of experience.

The motif depicted is a pine tree known as Sagari-matsu—a reference to the famous “Ichijō Sagari-matsu” in Kyoto, where the legendary swordsman Miyamoto Musashi is said to have fought the Yoshioka clan. Chitojin named this design after that pine, perhaps identifying with Musashi’s solitary struggle. Far from his native Kyoto, Chitojin, too, forged his own path alone in Imari—his artistic journey echoing the same spirit of resilience.