Kazuo Nakada has been designated as a Living National Treasure (Preserver of Important Intangible Cultural Property) for his ceramic technique known as Yukasai (underglaze coloring), marking the first time this honor has been bestowed upon Kutani ware decoration technology. This designation serves as public proof that the unique world of Yuri-ginsai (underglaze silver foil), which he has refined over many years, represents one of the highest peaks of Japanese traditional beauty.
The reason Kazuo Nakada, who has established a new milestone in the history of Kutani ware, is held in such high esteem lies in the almost obsessive precision condensed into this work. The essence of Yuri-ginsai lies in the nearly impossible technical harmony of sealing the brilliance of silver deep beneath a lapis lazuli glaze. While ordinary silver decoration typically oxidizes and turns black when exposed to air, Nakada arranges paper-thin pieces of silver foil one by one like a puzzle based on meticulous calculations. He perfectly controls the risk of the silver foil melting away due to the intense heat during firing, maintaining an eternal sparkle within the glaze. This process is a divine skill that only he can achieve. This specific expression of silver shining with dignity beneath the glaze was the decisive reason for his selection as the first Living National Treasure in the field of Yukasai.
This work was created around 2009, a period when Nakada had completely mastered his technique and was receiving intense attention from museums worldwide; it is a representative piece that embodies his true essence. The silver foil hidden beneath the lapis lazuli glaze changes its expression like a kaleidoscope depending on the angle of the light, sometimes shimmering sharply like a gemstone and at other times swaying softly like morning mist. The geometric patterns reminiscent of lotus petals covering the entire vessel are his signature design. The contrast of blue and silver reflecting on the inside when sake is poured can be described as a supreme view that only the owner can enjoy.
Furthermore, this work is exceptionally outstanding in terms of its form. The footed style exudes the dignity of a fine art craft, yet it maintains excellent center-of-gravity balance when actually held, fusing practicality and aesthetics at a high level. As a testament to its global value, his works are part of the permanent collections of institutions such as the Smithsonian's Arthur M. Sackler Gallery in the United States. Following his designation as a Living National Treasure in 2025, there is no doubt that the rarity of such fulfilling works from his mature period will increase further in the art market. Holding the crystal of light of a master who has carved his name in history while enjoying a supreme drink is nothing less than a luxurious cultural privilege that transcends a mere evening glass.
Produced by: Kazuo Nakada
The artist's notable achievements include: [ 1990]Minister of Education Award at the Japan Traditional Crafts Exhibition; [1993]Underglaze Silver Vase selected for permanent collection at the Smithsonian Institution's Mackler Gallery in Washington; [2001] Grand Prize at the Traditional Kutani Ware Crafts Exhibition; [ 2011]Medal with Purple Ribbon; [ 2019] Order of the Rising Sun, Gold Rays with Rosette; [2025] Designated Living National Treasure for his underglaze enamel technique.
Production date: circa 2009
Condition: Very good (no chips or cracks)
Accessories: Dedicated wooden box, wrapping cloth, artist biography
Characteristics of Nakata Kazuo's works: His greatest feature is the "underglaze silver color" technique, which involves applying a pattern with silver foil under the glaze. This technique allows the shine of the silver to show through the glaze, and the soft, pale colors and shading of light create a delicate expression with depth. Many of his works feature plants and geometric patterns applied with silver color, and are characterized by a cool, modern style.
Please note: Even if the products we offer are brand new and unused, they are very old and are listed as second-hand items. Please note that the products may have damage due to aging, so please understand and check before purchasing.
