I am Anagama No.2 Large Heishi Vase. I carry centuries of tradition in my form, but let’s be honest—I’m here to make a statement. With textures shaped by time and fire, I’m the kind of piece that stops you in your tracks. Every angle tells a new story, and I’ve got plenty to share.
The Heishi vase has deep roots in Japanese tradition, historically used in ceremonies and offerings to symbolize balance and harmony. This particular Heishi vase, created through the anagama kiln, brings a contemporary twist to that ancient form. Its multicolored surface is adorned with striking orange and amber tones, created by shell imprints left behind during firing. As Iwata-san explained, carefully placed seashells protected the surface, while their chemistry left behind these vivid, natural markings—almost as if the kiln itself decided the colors. Standing as the true masterpiece of the collection, this vase commands attention with its sculptural quality and rich texture. With barnacle-like details and uneven surfaces, it feels as though it has been excavated from the depths of the earth or recovered from a shipwreck. Every angle reveals something new, showcasing the kiln’s unpredictable beauty. The Heishi shape carries history, but the textures, colors, and marks of the flame bring this piece to life, bridging the ancient and the contemporary in Iwata-san’s most extraordinary work.
Anagama No. 2 Large Heishi Vase was curated by Angélique Chmielewski
Artist: Keisuke Iwata
Dimensions:
8.5" (w) x 8.5" (l) x 8.8" (h) or 216mm (w) x 216mm (l) x 224mm (h)
Weight:
6.1 lbs or 2.8 kg
Materials:
Ceramic