Hand Carved Tokoname Clay Plaque by Kouji Watanabe
A compact Tokoname clay plaque by Kouji Watanabe featuring a dragon in motion with carved cloud forms and maker marks. Finished in unglazed red clay with darkened contrast in the relief, this piece is designed as a display accent for a tokonoma, bonsai shelf, or studio wall and adds a strong traditional motif in a small footprint.
Style and Finish
- Type: Display plaque, relief tile
- Finish: Unglazed red clay with natural firing variation
- Design: Dragon and clouds relief with carved detail and darkened contrast
- Marks: Maker stamps and carved characters
Dimensions
- Size: 4.25" x 3.25" x 0.25" thick
Display Ideas
Lean it against a backboard behind a shohin display, place it on a shelf as a backdrop, or mount it in a small frame. The dragon motif pairs especially well with rugged conifers, collected-style material, and dramatic deadwood compositions.
About the Potter and Kiln
This piece was made at Kakuzan Toen in Tokoname, Japan. Kouji Watanabe manages the kiln and is known for his skill in teaching wheel lessons to visitors and fellow bonsai potters, continuing the workshop’s tradition through both production and education.
Photo Note
Photos are taken in consistent lighting to show carving depth and clay color. Minor kiln marks, pinholes, firing variation, or small asymmetries are normal and part of handmade Tokoname work.
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