Bamboo Ichijugiri Hanaire Flower Vase 'Hatsuzora' with Box

This is a bamboo ichijugiri (single-cut) flower vase for tea ceremony, bearing the inscription of the name "Hatsuzora" (First Sky of the New Year). The seller believes the box inscription is by Miyanishi Gensho (1904-1982), the previous head priest of Obaiin, a sub-temple of Daitokuji, though this is not certain. The front of the vase is inscribed in vermilion with the characters for "Hatsuzora," a dignified seasonal word associated with New Year. This is an auspicious name symbolizing the fresh sky of New Year's Day and the beginning of the year, making it ideal for the Hatsugama (first tea gathering) of January, New Year tea occasions, and the tokonoma alcove display. The form makes use of the natural bamboo node, simple yet dignified, beautifully setting off plum, camellia, and knotted willow, among other seasonal flowers.

Condition: The overall condition is poor. There is age-related patina characteristic of bamboo, slight stains and scuffs, and a large crack on the body. It comes in the wooden box (tomobako). Please check the condition carefully with the photos before purchasing.