Lot Essay
Ogata Kenzan (1663-1743) is Japan's most celebrated potter. His ceramics are non-traditional, playful, painterly and, above all, highly original. Kenzan adapted the "cornered dish" (kakuzara) from a lacquer or wood model, the flat surface of which is the perfect plane for a painting. Dishes such as these are used to serve light food at the tea gathering.
Kenzan pottery was a popular tradition lasting over several centuries, complicating the dating of wares with the Kenzan signature or seals.
Kenzan pottery was a popular tradition lasting over several centuries, complicating the dating of wares with the Kenzan signature or seals.