Ishijima Akihiko — "Basara" Bold Contemporary Incense Burner (Sold)

This piece has found its home. It is kept here as a record of what has passed through our hands.

This is an exceptional Basara incense burner by Ishijima Akihiko ( Ishijima Akihiko, born 1954), one of contemporary Japan's most acclaimed ceramic artists based in Mashiko.

The term "Basara" refers to an aesthetic concept from medieval Japan that celebrated flamboyant, unconventional beauty that defied traditional norms.

Ishijima's interpretation of this spirit manifests in the bold, dynamic sculptural form of this incense burner, which features dramatic angles and an assertive presence that commands attention.

Crafted in Mashiko, a town renowned for its pottery tradition, this piece showcases Ishijima's masterful technique developed through decades of dedication to his craft.

After training under Kaneta Sanzaemon in Hagi and studying at the Royal Danish Academy of Fine Arts in Copenhagen, Ishijima established his kiln in Mashiko's Oyake district in 1981.

His international training combined with deep respect for Japanese ceramic traditions has resulted in works that are both contemporary and timeless.

This incense burner exemplifies the artist's ability to create functional objects that transcend utility to become sculptural art.

The piece displays Ishijima's characteristic approach to form and surface, where every angle and curve serves both aesthetic and functional purposes.

The glaze and firing techniques create subtle variations in color and texture that reveal themselves gradually, inviting prolonged contemplation.

Ishijima's achievements include the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology Award at the 22nd Japan Ceramic Art Exhibition (2013), the Grand Prize at the 2nd Flower Vessel Biennale (1993), and the Japan Kogei Association Award at the 29th Traditional Crafts New Works Exhibition (1989).

His works are held in prestigious collections and continue to be exhibited at major venues including Daimaru Tokyo and Takashimaya.

This piece comes with its original signed box (tomobako) and explanatory leaflet (shiori), confirming its authenticity and provenance.

Perfect for the tea ceremony or as a centerpiece in a contemporary interior, this incense burner represents an important work by an artist at the height of his creative powers.

Size
Height: 14.5 cm
Width: 13 cm
Depth: 9 cm

Condition
The piece is in excellent condition with no visible damage, chips, or repairs.

Artist Profile
Ishijima Akihiko (, born 1954) is a distinguished contemporary ceramic artist working in Mashiko, Tochigi Prefecture. Born in Tokyo, Ishijima began his ceramic training in 1974 under Kaneta Sanzaemon in Hagi, one of Japan's historic pottery centers. In 1979, he expanded his artistic horizons by studying at the Royal Danish Academy of Fine Arts and Design in Copenhagen, where he absorbed Scandinavian design principles that would later inform his unique aesthetic.
Upon returning to Japan, Ishijima established his kiln in Oyake, Mashiko in 1981, joining the lineage of renowned potters who have made this town famous. His work bridges Eastern and Western ceramic traditions, combining the spontaneity and earthiness of Japanese folk pottery with the refined minimalism of Scandinavian design.
Throughout his career, Ishijima has received numerous prestigious awards, including the Japan Kogei Association Award at the 29th Traditional Crafts New Works Exhibition (1989), the Grand Prize at the 2nd Flower Vessel Biennale (1993), and the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology Award at the 22nd Japan Ceramic Art Exhibition (2013). He has also received recognition at international exhibitions, including an Excellence Award at the Jingdezhen International Ceramics Expo.
His works have been featured in major exhibitions at venues such as Daimaru Tokyo, Takashimaya in Nihonbashi and Kyoto, and numerous solo and group shows throughout Japan. Ishijima continues to create innovative ceramic works that honor tradition while pushing the boundaries of contemporary ceramic art.

NOITICE:

The lot will be carefully packaged and sent by Japan Post, DHL or FedEx depend on the situation.
It takes about 3 weeks to receive normally.
Import duties, taxes, and charges are not included in the item price or shipping cost.
These charges are the buyer's responsibility.

Sometimes Customes or delivery company in your country contact you for Customs clearance via phone or email. Please make sure that you could answer the phone. If you don't, the parcel will return to me and it cost more double shipping fee for reshipping.

I appreciate your cooperation.

Sold — no longer available.