Japanese Hyotan Vase Shosuke Kiln Pottery Signed Box Document Vintage

This authentic Japanese hyotan (gourd-shaped) pottery vase is a refined example of traditional craftsmanship, accompanied by its original signed wooden box (tomobako) and official document. Sourced from a Japanese Government auction, this piece is a genuine collectible with strong provenance.

The elegant elongated form with a looped handle reflects the classic hyotan shape, a symbol deeply rooted in Japanese culture. The gourd motif has long been associated with good fortune, protection, and the warding off of negative energy. Historically, hyotan vessels were also used to carry water or sake, adding functional heritage to their symbolic meaning.

Based on the inscription on the wooden box and the included document, this piece is attributed to 新庄助右衛門窯 (Shinjō Sukemon Kiln), a traditional Japanese kiln lineage. The document appears to outline the kiln’s history and generational lineage, further enhancing the authenticity and collectible value of the item.

The glaze is subtle and natural, with soft earthy tones and gentle variations typical of hand-thrown pottery. The surface shows refined simplicity, emphasizing form and balance rather than decoration—an aesthetic closely aligned with wabi-sabi philosophy.

The included tomobako (signed wooden storage box) is an important element in Japanese ceramics, often used for authentication and preservation. The handwritten calligraphy identifies the piece and kiln, making it especially desirable for collectors.

This piece is ideal for:
– Collectors of Japanese studio pottery
– Tea ceremony or traditional décor enthusiasts
– Wabi-sabi or minimalist interiors
– Display as a symbolic and artistic object

🟢 Highlights:
✅ Authentic Japanese hyotan (gourd-shaped) vase
✅ Attributed to Shinjō Sukemon Kiln (新庄助右衛門窯)
✅ Includes original signed wooden box (tomobako)
✅ Comes with official document / provenance paper
✅ Traditional handmade pottery craftsmanship
✅ Symbol of luck, protection, and prosperity
✅ Elegant minimalist wabi-sabi aesthetic
✅ Sourced from Japan government auction

🟢 Document Translation (Summary & Key Points):
Title / Header:
萩焼 深川窯
永昌庵
新庄助右衛門窯

👉 This indicates:
Hagi Ware (萩焼 / Hagi-yaki)
Fukagawa Kiln lineage
Eishō-an (studio name)
Shinjō Sukemon Kiln

🟢 Main Content (Right Side Text):
The text explains:

This pottery belongs to the tradition of Hagi ware, a famous Japanese ceramic style.
The kiln has a long historical lineage (over multiple generations).
It emphasizes traditional techniques such as:
Natural glazes
Handcrafted forming
Appreciation of texture and simplicity
It highlights the Japanese aesthetic of harmony, softness, and natural beauty.

👉 In simple terms:
This is a traditional Hagi ware piece made in a historic kiln lineage, focusing on classic Japanese pottery values.

🟢 Lineage Section (Center List):
This part lists the generations of the kiln family, going back many generations (over 10+ generations).

👉 This is typical for respected kilns — it shows authenticity and heritage.

🟢 Maker Identification:

新庄助右衛門窯
（山口県 萩市）

👉 Shinjō Sukemon Kiln
Located in Hagi City, Yamaguchi Prefecture

🟢 Important Insight About the Year:
The document does NOT state an exact production year.

However, based on:
Paper type
Printing style
Layout
Inclusion of lineage chart

👉 This type of document is typically 1970s Showa era (昭和)

🟢 Condition:
Very good vintage condition. Minor natural wear, subtle glaze variations, and light aging on the wooden box and paper document. These are consistent with age and add to authenticity. Please review all photos carefully.

📢 Important Shipping Policy Update
To ensure safe delivery, we currently ship one item per order only.
Orders with multiple items may be canceled and refunded. Once your item arrives safely, you’re welcome to place another order.

📦 Condition
Please review all photos carefully, as they form part of the item description. Dimensions and additional details are provided in the images.