I am Anagama No.11 Cylindrical Vase. You’ll find me with a unique beauty mark—a fiery touch that only the kiln could leave behind.

Curator's Notes 

This piece immediately stands out within Iwata-san’s body of work. Its geometric shape breaks away from his signature organic, stone-inspired forms, giving it a bold and striking presence. But what makes this piece truly special is the subtle dance of colors across its surface, the result of its journey through the anagama kiln.

Unexpected blush tones cover much of the vase, and as you look closer, you’ll notice what I like to call “beauty marks”—small, crimson spots that add a layer of character and charm. These marks are entirely unique to the anagama process, shaped by the unpredictability of the flames. The multicolored effect, with rich orange hues blending into the soft blush, gives the vase a dual-toned vibrancy that feels alive. It’s a piece that draws you in with its striking simplicity, only to surprise you with its depth and detail.

Anagama No.11 - Cylindrical Vase was curated by Angélique Chmielewski

Designer/Maker 

Artist: Keisuke Iwata

Specifications

Dimensions: 

2.0" (w) x 2.0" (l) x 2.1" (h) or 51mm (w) x 51mm (l) x 53mm (h)

Weight: 

0.3 lbs or 0.1 kg

Materials: 

Ceramic

Details

• One-of-a-kind functional sculpture vase handmade by Keisuke Iwata in Fukuoka, Japan
• Flowers and water can be contained through two small holes at the top surface 
• Water can be inserted into the small holes via a liquid syringe or by submerging the vase in a bucket of water 
• Created using an ancient Japanese ceramic technique that involves an Anagama woodfired kiln, fired once a year in a ceremonial process by Keisuke Iwata
• Anagama works are each unique to the clay's own intimate interactions with the flames and ash
• Watertight material