HORSESHOE STONE JAR, Natural Object（Date Unknown）

Horseshoe stone jar.As it is a natural stone, its date is unknown.

A small stone only about 9.5cm wide, it nevertheless—when seen from the front—possesses the calm, powerful presence of a Muromachi-period seed jar from old Tokoname and suggests the posture of a crouching figure. A naturally formed hole in the rounded lower section opens like a mouth, giving it a jar-like appearance.

Shaped over a long period by water flow and abrasion, it contains a tubular cavity within, and its exterior retains an aged brown surface and the characteristic luster of stone. Though formed by natural forces, its appeal lies in the ability to discern the form of a jar within it.

When placed on a stand it acquires a more defined center of gravity, yet even without a stand it reads as a complete jar. The rim’s seemingly chipped outline and the rounded body impart the aura of an ancient vessel long buried or lingered by the water’s edge. As one might liken it to early Tokoname seed jars or to a crouching form, there is a quiet pleasure in discerning the vessel’s shape within the stone.

A single small bloom accentuates the interplay between the stone’s weight and the plant’s softness. When accompanied by hydrangea or wildflowers, it evokes a quiet scene distinct from that of antique ceramics, as if nature itself were the vessel. When moistened, the stone surface deepens in color, revealing a luster and expression different from its dry state.

As this is a natural stone, the surface exhibits irregularities, scuffs, chips, encrustations, and naturally occurring holes and cracks. No water leakage was observed during several hours of testing; however, when used as a flower vessel, please employ an insert or saucer as necessary. A stand is included.