Surprising as it might be, just because some antique Japanese vases or other earthenware hail from a period that pre-dates ceramic, it does not mean that they lack in beauty. Admittedly, the oldest pieces that go all the way back to the Neolithic times may have been crude, but as time passed, the art of potters in Japan grew by leaps and bounds.

Periods of Antique Japanese Pottery Before Ceramics

Right after the Neolithic, in the Mesolithic, it was the time of the Jomon pottery period. Named after its very recognizable coil-made clay structure, the Jomon antique Japanese pottery items gradually incorporated more artistic elements into their designs.

For about 10,000 years, the Jomon period continued to make steady progress in terms of the antique Japanese vases and other Japanese antiques that were produced.

Eventually, the Jomon culture itself was displaced by the Yayoi, which brought with it entirely new advances in style, patterning, design, and even manufacture. Notably, they used the potters wheel instead of just making each piece by hand.

Most of the antique Japanese pottery from this period is very simple in decorative motifs. Antique Japanese vases that have patterns involving geometric designs were particularly popular, as were other Japanese antiques that had practical applications.

After some time, even the Yayoi faded away, and from there on out, South Korean potters bringing over their own advancements, as well as the steady Chinese influence, became ever more common. In short, it set the scene for the day when porcelain would eventually be discovered by one of the Korean potters in Japan.

Due to the relative rarity and age of the old (non-porcelain) antique Japanese pottery pieces, they normally tend to be pretty valuable. Even the not so aesthetically pleasing Yayoi Japanese antiques are much sought after.

If you’re a collector, you should definitely be able to identify and differentiate between these pieces, and their more modern counterparts. After all, due to their value, if you ever stumble across antique Japanese vases or other earthenware that hails from the Yayoi or Jomon periods, you’ll want to grab it up immediately.

Antique Japanese Pottery: Collecting the Pre-ceramic Ancient Past is a post from: Japanese Antiquities

As with most things in ancient Japan, there are countless links between the culture and traditions, and even these flower vases are not an exemption.

During the height of the popularity of the tea ceremony, for example, selecting the perfect antique Japanese vase to hold a blossom or two was regarded as somewhat of a necessity. Of course, ‘perfect antique Japanese vases’ used for such purposes need not strictly have floral designs.

Instead, the full length and breadth of artistic impression available in antique Japanese vases would be considered.

Commonly, these antique Japanese vases were made from ceramic, although to be fair, some pieces in lacquered wood can still be found, and are no less beautiful. In many ways, the material from which the vase is made from matters a lot less than the overall affect that is attained once it gently holds the flowers that are placed within it.

Today, artificial flowers are very much the vogue, as you would not need to keep changing them. So, if you’re looking for antique Japanese vases, it might be a good idea to have an idea of the flower (or flowers) that it is going to be holding, and find something that fits based on that.

Then, you can proudly display the flowery traditions of antique Japanese vases to grand results.

Flowery Traditions of Antique Japanese Vases is a post from: Japanese Antiquities

Appealing as they are, there are two reasons that normally lie behind the choice to purchase antique Japanese vases. Either it is desired for the aesthetic appeal, or, intended to be part of a collection. In both cases, knowing even a little bit more about Japanese vases could enable you to come to the best conclusion.

As you’ve probably noticed, a lot of these vases are made from porcelain. Admittedly, there are other materials that are sometimes used, but the image of the porcelain Japanese vase with its lustrous finish and intricate decorations is iconic.

If you’re interested in an antique Japanese vase as a display piece, and not really too concerned about its potential historical value or significance, then the decision is easier. Although there is a wide range of decorative motifs on Japanese vases, finding one to suit a particular taste should not be a difficult task.

On the other hand, venturing into the realm of collectors, there are far more considerations to be taken into account. Factors such as make and manufacture, era, style, and so much more can all contribute to the value of a Japanese vase, which is of course of great importance to any collector.

In depth as a study of the intricacies of Japanese vases is, there are easily locatable resources on the matter both online and offline.

Due to this, if you’re interested in a Japanese vase, it would be best to first select the capacity in which you intend to purchase it, and then possibly find out more about the types of vases that may interest you.

Japanese Vases: Choice as Valuable Collectors Items, or Aesthetically Pleasing Ornaments is a post from: Japanese Antiquities