{"product_id":"vintage-seto-ware-vase-usuke-kato-tokkuri-three-monkeys-h-10-6-in-435128274","title":"Vintage Seto Ware Vase, Usuke Kato Tokkuri, Three Monkeys H10.6in","description":"\u003cp\u003eCrafted in the Showa era by Usuke Kato, this vintage seto ware vase captures Seto-yaki tradition with ash glaze, incised chrysanthemum motifs and three playful monkey-like figures around the rim. Modeled on medieval heishi ritual sake flasks and tokkuri vessels, the piece measures approximately H 10.6in × 6.9in (27 × 17.5 cm) and weighs 77.4 oz (2200 g). The soft yellowish tone and rustic, bold styling reflect wabi sabi decor ideals, while stamped patterns and a potter’s-wheel finish emphasize its artisan pottery character. Signed Japanese vase provenance and collectible pottery appeal to collectors and décor enthusiasts, and modest age-related wear.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cdiv style=\"margin-left: 20px;\"\u003e * Artist: Usuke Kato (1915–1981) — Seto-yaki potter\u003c\/div\u003e\u003cdiv style=\"margin-left: 20px;\"\u003e * Dimensions: H 10.6in × 6.9in (about H 27cm × 17.5cm)\u003c\/div\u003e\u003cdiv style=\"margin-left: 20px;\"\u003e * Weight: 77.4 oz (2200 g)\u003c\/div\u003e\u003cdiv style=\"margin-left: 20px;\"\u003e * Material: ceramic, porcelain with ash glaze\u003c\/div\u003e\u003cdiv style=\"margin-left: 20px;\"\u003e * Design: three monkey-like figures around the rim; incised chrysanthemum motif; stamped Old Seto patterns\u003c\/div\u003e\u003cdiv style=\"margin-left: 20px;\"\u003e * Style references: heishi vase form, vintage sake flask \/ tokkuri vessel influence\u003c\/div\u003e\u003cdiv style=\"margin-left: 20px;\"\u003e * Condition: very good with cracks, small glaze flakes, and age-related scratches\u003c\/div\u003e\u003cdiv style=\"margin-left: 20px;\"\u003e * Keywords: Japanese pottery, antique ceramic jar, artisan pottery, Usuke Kato ceramics, collectible pottery, wabi sabi decor\u003c\/div\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cp\u003eAbout the artist and provenance\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eUsuke Kato was active in the Seto region during the Showa era and is noted here for exceptional potter’s-wheel skill. The piece is signed and consistent with known characteristics of Usuke Kato ceramics and Old Seto ware: stamped surface decoration, a restrained ash glaze, and ritual flask proportions. As a signed Japanese vase from a recognized Seto-yaki practitioner, it holds interest for collectors of Japanese pottery and antique ceramic jar forms.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cp\u003eDesign and materials\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe vessel follows the heishi or ritual sake flask silhouette with a narrowed neck and rounded body reminiscent of tokkuri vessels. The ash glaze develops a soft, slightly yellowish hue that softens the incised chrysanthemum motif along the shoulder. The three monkey-like figures are rendered in a bold, rustic manner that evokes traditional Seto stylistic language rather than refined porcelain ornamentation, aligning it with handcrafted stoneware and artisan pottery sensibilities.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cp\u003eCondition and display\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThis vintage piece is in very good condition overall. Visible are hairline cracks, small glaze flakes, and minor scratches consistent with age and use; these traits contribute to the wabi sabi decor appeal rather than detract from historical character. Due to its weight and form, display on a stable surface is recommended; avoid direct sun to preserve glaze tone.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cp\u003eCare instructions\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eHandle with care due to age-related cracks and glaze flakes. Dust gently with a soft, dry cloth; avoid soaking or dishwasher cleaning. If using for dried floral arrangements, place an interior liner to protect the ceramic.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp data-pasted=\"true\"\u003e🌐 ーーー SHOP POLICIES ーーー\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e🌐 International Buyers: Standard DDU terms. Custom duties\/taxes are the buyer's responsibility upon delivery.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e✈️ SHIPPING\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e• Free Shipping: To US, Europe, and most areas. \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e• Surcharges: May apply to Australia, NZ, or remote areas for heavy\/large items only. We will contact you before shipping (Full refund if canceled). Small\/light items always ship free worldwide.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e• Courier: Securely shipped via DHL, FedEx, EMS, or Japan Post with tracking. Carrier is selected by the shop; buyers cannot specify. Urgent upgrades available (please message us before buying).\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e📦 COMBINED SHIPPING\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e• We combine shipping for multiple purchases whenever safe. Any realized shipping savings will be promptly refunded to you after packaging.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e🛡️ RETURNS \u0026amp; CONDITION\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e• Returns: Accepted within 7 days. Buyer pays round-trip shipping costs and processing fees for buyer's remorse.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e• Condition: Our items are authentic antiques\/vintage. Naturally, they carry signs of age (scratches\/wear). Please examine all photos carefully before purchasing.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cp\u003eFAQ\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eQ: Is this suitable as a vintage sake flask or functional tokkuri vessel?\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eA: The form references vintage sake flask and tokkuri vessel shapes, but age-related cracks and glaze flakes mean it is best used for display or as a dried-flower vessel rather than regular liquid use.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cp\u003eQ: Is the piece signed and authentic to Usuke Kato?\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eA: Yes. The listing notes it is created by Usuke Kato and exhibits signatures and stylistic marks consistent with Usuke Kato ceramics from Seto.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cp\u003eQ: What terms describe its style and collectibility?\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eA: This jar fits descriptions such as Japanese pottery, antique ceramic jar, Seto-yaki vase, handcrafted stoneware, and collectible pottery, and it appeals to those seeking wabi sabi decor.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Wabisabi Antiques","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52780686672004,"sku":"24844","price":460.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0571\/6593\/8820\/files\/e52d9355-9846-4c8e-b62d-2e89f661945b-copy.jpg?v=1788836348","url":"https:\/\/wabisabiantiques.com\/en-us\/products\/vintage-seto-ware-vase-usuke-kato-tokkuri-three-monkeys-h-10-6-in-435128274","provider":"Wabisabi Antiques","version":"1.0","type":"link"}