Tsuboshima Dohei 坪島 圡平 1929-2013
H9.9 × Dia 33.5 cm
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Born in Osaka, Tsuboshima Dohei followed an unconventional path, beginning his journey as a potter through an apprenticeship and studies under the tutelage of the salaryman-turned master potter, Kawakita Handeishi in 1946. Kawakita's unconventional nature, characterized by his talents in poetry, pottery, painting, and calligraphy, profoundly influenced Tsuboshima's artistic style. Tsuboshima himself developed a remarkable sensitivity to imagery and composition on three-dimensional surfaces, remaining faithful to Kawakita's artistic legacy. For instance, in this octagonal bowl, he employs painterly strokes to depict a heron by a riverbank. The dynamic, light-handed swoop of the reeds delicately frames the silhouette of the freshwater bird, imbuing the piece with an air of lightness and ephemerality. The form of the bowl is equally satisfying.
Throughout his life, Tsuboshima mastered a wide array of clay styles and techniques, including Shino and iron overglazes, demonstrating his mastery in showcasing the unique qualities of clay in his Iga and Shigaraki wares.