Heian Tofukuji 平安東福寺-
Recognised as the pinnacle of Japanese design and aesthetics in bonsai pottery, The late Heian Tofukuji is arguably Japans most popular potter of all time. These are a higher price level, with some pots selling for tens of thousands of pounds.
Tofukuji lived a hard life, and even had to share the kilns of others. By research and experimentation under these unfavourable conditions however, he managed to create such variety and excellence of form, and incredible glazes. Many current day potters try to emulate his work, including amongst other; Bushuan, Ikkou, and Heian Kosen.
It was not until after his death that his work attracted recognition and real legend status. Nowadays, the values continue to rise, as the pots become more scarce and collectable, and are revered as a practical use famous pot.
Date of birth: April 25, 1890 (Meiji 23)
Tofukuji lived a hard life, and even had to share the kilns of others. By research and experimentation under these unfavourable conditions however, he managed to create such variety and excellence of form, and incredible glazes. Many current day potters try to emulate his work, including amongst other; Bushuan, Ikkou, and Heian Kosen.
It was not until after his death that his work attracted recognition and real legend status. Nowadays, the values continue to rise, as the pots become more scarce and collectable, and are revered as a practical use famous pot.
Date of birth: April 25, 1890 (Meiji 23)
H. Tofukuji Juniour
Tofukuji's son has definatley picked up much of his father's talent, and produces a wide variety of good quality, mostly mame and shohin pots. These are more affordable mid range pots, coming in at c. £100 to £200.
Text courtesy of topshelfbonsaipots.co.uk. Please pay them a visit and be amazed by their incredible library and collection!