White Mist Ceramic and Glass Lidded Box
MakerMade by
Takahiro Kondo
(Kyoto, Japan, born 1958)
Date2005
Object NameBox
MediumCeramic, glass and 'ginteki' (silver overglaze)
ClassificationsCeramics
DimensionsHeight: 5.5cm
Width: 4cm
Weight: 214g
Width: 4cm
Weight: 214g
AcquisitionPurchased in 2008 with assistance from the National Fund for Acquisitions.
Copyright© Takahiro Kondo (2008)
LocationOn Display - Gallery 05
Object numberABDAG011340
About MeThis 'White Mist' ceramic, glass and metalwork box is from the Japanese artist Takahiro Kondo's 'Mist' series of work. The base of the box is white porcelain decorated throughout with a fine condensation like pattern. This effect is achieved through a technique patented by the artist called ginteki, a granular silver overglaze which is also known as 'silver mist'. Through combining molten silver, gold and platinum with water Kondo creates unique results by dripping the mixture over the ceramic body and firing just as enamels are fused to metals, transforming the vessel into a glittering jewel. The lid of the box is made from a chunk of clear cast glass the same depth as the base of the box. Within the glass Kondo has captured pockets of air which appear as small bubbles and thread like patterns, again suggesting mist. The combination of these elements creates a magical, luminescent object especially when subjected to light. These boxes are incredibly subtle and pure, yet powerful and intriguing and these characteristics attest to why Kondo's work transcends any cultural boundaries.
Takahiro Kondo (b. 1958, Japan) is the third generation of potters in his Kyoto family. He has adapted and developed traditional ceramic techniques to create modern and innovative objects. He is also concerned with distorting the boundaries between applied and fine art, working between the disciplines of ceramic, sculpture, glass making and painting. He has close connections with Scotland not only choosing to work and exhibit in the country, but studying at Edinburgh College of Art for a Masters in Design and Applied Arts.
The boxes are examples from Kondo's successful 'Mist' series, the result of the period he spent in Orkney where he investigated the changing weather and light conditions and was inspired by the standing stone circles on the island. The different states that water manifests are themes which have preoccupied Kondo's work for some time. The transformation of water into ice, snow, rain, condensation and mist is prevalent in his sculptures and vessels.
More About Me
The white porcelain base has a fine condensation-like pattern. Molten silver, gold and platinum combined with water transform the vessel into a glittering jewel. The artist patented this technique.
Exhibitions
Meiji Period, 19th century
Meiji Period, 19th century
