Handmade Bonsai Pot by Yamafusa (Takehiko Koie)
This handmade oval bonsai pot was made in Tokoname, Japan by Yamafusa (Takehiko Koie). I purchased this pot directly through another artist and guide while in Japan.
This is a strong, display-ready Yamafusa with a deeper visual presence than the lighter cream example. The low oval form is classic and disciplined, but the glaze gives it far more mood. From a distance it reads almost black, yet up close it opens up into layered blue, charcoal, slate, and smoky midnight tones. That movement keeps the pot from feeling flat and gives it a more serious, collector-oriented character.
What makes this piece especially appealing is the balance between simplicity and richness. The form is clean and quiet, with no unnecessary decoration, so all of the visual interest comes from proportion and glaze. The thin rim line, shallow wall, and low feet keep it elegant, while the dark surface gives it weight and authority. It would pair beautifully with deciduous bonsai, fine-branching material, or even a more refined evergreen where you want depth without flash.
The interior clay creates a very nice contrast as well. That warm unglazed surface against the cool exterior glaze gives the pot a more handcrafted and thoughtful feel when viewed from above. This is the kind of container that feels easy to place, but hard to replace once it is gone.
- Condition note: This pot is new.
- Style: Shallow oval form with a clean rolled rim and low, balanced profile.
- Feet: Small integrated feet that keep the presentation visually light and refined.
- Exterior: Glossy blue-black glaze with layered movement in charcoal, slate, and deep midnight tones.
- Interior: Unglazed warm clay interior with five outer holes and one center drainage hole.
Dimensions:
- Outside: 14.5” x 11.25” x 2”
- Inside: 13.5” x 10.25” x 1.5”
Photo Note: Listing photos were taken in natural light. Glaze tone may appear slightly different depending on screen settings and lighting conditions.
Shipping Info: This pot will be carefully packed and fully insured for safe transit.
Meet the Artist
Yamafusa, associated with Takehiko Koie, is a respected Tokoname pottery name known for clean, practical bonsai containers with lasting appeal. Tokoname pots are appreciated throughout the bonsai world for their balance of craftsmanship, utility, and regional character, and pieces like this show how a restrained form can become much more compelling when paired with the right glaze and proportion.
