Product Description

7503            A red kanshitsu (dry lacquer) flower vessel of abstract form, the interior in black with gold rim

Signed: Masa saku (Made by Masa)

Japan 20th century Shōwa period

Dimensions:  H.7¾” x W. 23¼” x D. 5¾” (19.5 cm x 59 cm x 14.5 cm)

Tomobako (original box) inscribed:

Lid: Kanshitsu hanaike (Dry lacquer flower vessel)

Lid interior: Masazō saku (made by Masazō)

Seal: Masa

Kawai Masazō (1928-2009) was a lacquer artist who lived and worked in Tokyo. He frequently exhibited in Nitten (Japan Fine Art Exhibition) where he won the Tokusen (Speciality Award) at the 7th Nitten in 1964. He also held eight solo shows in various locations during his career.

Masazō became a member of Gendai Kogei Bijutsuka Kyokai (Creative Crafts Association) in 1980 and was soon elevated to the position of executive director. In 1982 he was joined by the renowned metal worker Hasuda Shugoro (1915-2010) who was elected as chairman.

In 1992 he received an award from the ministry of Education at the 31st Gendai Bijutsu Kogei Ten (Contemporary Art and Craft Exhibition).