Teruko Nakamura, based at Fujigama in Ebetsu, Hokkaido, is a preeminent artist in the Hokkaido ceramics scene, serving as president of the Hokkaido Ceramics Association and a full member of the Japan Kōgei Association. This piece, distinct from her signature soil inlay technique, is a sometsuke (underglaze blue) Bajouhai (Horse-riding cup). It features a powerful flying dragon rendered in gosu (cobalt blue pigment) on a pristine white background reminiscent of porcelain. The elegant, thinly-potted form, meticulously crafted on a hand-turned potter's wheel, blends the delicate touch characteristic of a female artist with the solid technical skill expected of a full member of the Japan Kōgei Association, beautifully capturing the serene atmosphere of the northern land.
The flying dragon depicted as the motif is characterized by dynamic brushstrokes that convey the artist's breath in every line. The sometsuke gradation technique, transitioning from pale to deep blue, expresses the dragon's dynamism as it tears through clouds and ascends to the heavens. Its surface is finished smoothly with a transparent glaze. This flying dragon motif is an auspicious design symbolizing ascent and protection, and combined with the elegant shape of the Bajouhai cup, historically used for enjoying sake on horseback, it exudes a dignity that seems to elevate the aspirations of those who hold it.
A remarkable aspect of this work is the extremely clear boundary between the white background and the blue dragon, while the overall texture is moist and feels as if it adheres to the fingers. This is a testament to advanced glazing techniques and firing management, vividly expressing Ms. Nakamura's sensibility in elevating everyday vessels to the realm of art. We propose this dignified Bajouhai cup as a special vessel for savoring amber Japanese whiskey or aged sake. The time spent holding the stem between your fingers and admiring the contrast between the cool white and the vibrant blue will undoubtedly be a moment of pure bliss.
Teruko Nakamura continues to receive high acclaim at major domestic and international public exhibitions, including the Japan Traditional Crafts Exhibition, and her works are considered valuable artifacts symbolizing Hokkaido's ceramic culture. A one-of-a-kind sake cup like this, distinguished by its brilliant brushwork, is extremely rare on the market, offering an unparalleled collecting opportunity for those seeking the essence of Japanese Kōgei. Please add this Flying Dragon Bajouhai cup, the culmination of Ebetsu's rich soil and Ms. Nakamura's refined aesthetic, to your special collection.
- Artist: Teruko Nakamura (中村 照子, 1944–Present)
- Artist's Major Activities: President of the Hokkaido Ceramics Association. Full member of the Japan Kōgei Association. Creates works at Fujigama in Ebetsu, Hokkaido. Highly acclaimed domestically and internationally as a leading potter in Hokkaido, with numerous selections in the Japan Traditional Crafts Exhibition, recipient of the Doten Award (Hokkaido Fine Arts Association), and the NHK Broadcasting Station Award.
- Production Period: Circa 2008–2014 (estimated)
- Condition: Excellent (no chips, no cracks, some signs of age)
- Accessories: Custom washi paper box, artist's leaflet
- Material: Ceramic
- Dimensions: Mouth diameter approx. 7.2 cm, Height approx. 9.5 cm
- Note: Even if new and unused, all items offered by our shop are very old production pieces and are listed as used. Please understand and acknowledge that items may have age-related damage before considering purchase.
