Morikin Floral Arabesque Aochibu Round Vase

The rounded form of this Kutani ware vase brings together the traditional techniques of morikin “raised gold” and aochibu “blue dots.” Thousands of fine blue dots spread across the surface, creating a dense pattern that follows the vessel’s curving contours. Delicately layered, petal-like hosoge is an imaginary floral motif derived from Chinese arabesque designs and widely used in Japan during the Nara (710–794 CE) and Heian (794–1185 CE) periods. It is paired with flowing arabesque lines that wind around the vase. Both are intricately rendered in morikin gold. The aochibu creates a steady rhythm, while the morikin adds depth and texture. Created by third-generation Nakada Kingyoku, the vase brings these two Kutani ware techniques together, allowing their different textures to meet across a single surface. The work is presented in a paulownia wood chest with a wooden name plaque and protective cloth.