Imaizumi Imaemon XIV is the youngest ceramicist to be designated as a Living National Treasure in Japanese history, renowned for bringing innovation to traditional overglaze enamel porcelain. His works are highly acclaimed both domestically and internationally, particularly known for using a unique technique he developed called “yukihana-sumihajiki” (snow flower ink resistance).
This article will detail the circumstances of Imaizumi Imaemon XIV’s designation as the youngest Living National Treasure, introduce his representative works, and explore his activities aimed at the next generation.
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The Background and Achievements of “Imaizumi Imaemon XIV,” the Youngest Living National Treasure
Imaizumi Imaemon XIV is a prominent figure in Japanese traditional crafts, drawing attention for his young age at the time of his Living National Treasure designation. His work is characterized by a challenging approach that preserves tradition while incorporating new techniques, earning high acclaim both in Japan and abroad.
Let’s take a closer look at who Imaizumi Imaemon XIV is and the achievements that led to his designation as the youngest Living National Treasure.
Who is Imaizumi Imaemon XIV?
Imaizumi Imaemon XIV is a ceramicist from Arita Town, Saga Prefecture. He is known for inheriting Japan’s proud tradition of overglaze enamel porcelain and further elevating its artistry.
After studying craft design at Musashino Art University, he apprenticed under his father, Imaemon XIII, before succeeding as the 14th generation in 2002. Since then, Imaizumi Imaemon XIV has sought new forms of expression while preserving traditional techniques, bringing innovation to the world of overglaze enamel porcelain.
The Path to Becoming the Youngest Living National Treasure
Imaizumi Imaemon XIV was designated as a Living National Treasure in 2014. He received this honor at the young age of 51, recognized for his exceptional skills in overglaze enamel porcelain and innovative artwork creation.
While deeply rooted in tradition, Imaizumi Imaemon XIV has embraced new approaches in tune with the times, elevating overglaze porcelain to the realm of contemporary art. Even after being designated a Living National Treasure, he continues to present his work in exhibitions both in Japan and abroad, with an increasing presence in museums and galleries overseas.
Furthermore, Imaizumi Imaemon XIV’s works are highly regarded not only in Japan but worldwide. His achievements lie in his commitment not just to preserving traditional crafts, but continuously developing them.
What Are Imaizumi Imaemon XIV’s Representative Works?
Imaizumi Imaemon XIV’s works are known for their delicate techniques and beautiful designs, highly valued both in Japan and abroad. Here, we introduce some of his representative works.
Representative Works of Imaizumi Imaemon XIV
The following are some of Imaizumi Imaemon XIV’s representative works:
| Iro-e Usuzumi Sumihajiki Zakuro-mon Futa-tsuki Bin (Covered Bottle with Pomegranate Design in Pale Ink Resistance) | This work showcases Imaemon’s signature “usuzumi sumihajiki” (pale ink resistance) technique, with intricate pomegranate patterns appearing to float on the surface. It is characterized by delicate gradations, with a beautiful design softly emerging on a white background. |
| Iro-e Usuzumi Sumihajiki Tokeisou-mon Hachi (Bowl with Passionflower Design in Pale Ink Resistance) | This piece also uses the “usuzumi sumihajiki” technique, featuring a passionflower motif. The complex design is expressed with advanced technique, showcasing the essence of Imaemon’s skills. |
| Iro-e Usuzumi Sumihajiki Shiki-kabana-mon Kabin (Vase with Four Seasons Flower Design in Pale Ink Resistance) | This vase depicting flowers of the four seasons is a work that incorporates modern sensibilities while adhering to the traditions of Iro-Nabeshima. It is a highly acclaimed piece that fuses seasonal feelings with natural beauty. |
The Techniques and Characteristics of Imaizumi Imaemon XIV’s Work
Imaizumi Imaemon XIV has brought innovation to the world of overglaze enamel porcelain by inheriting traditional techniques while pursuing new forms of expression. His works, which fuse meticulous technique with a unique aesthetic sense, are highly valued both in Japan and abroad.
Here, we’ll explain in detail the representative techniques used by Imaizumi Imaemon XIV and their characteristics.
What Techniques Does Imaizumi Imaemon XIV Use?
Imaizumi Imaemon XIV has uniquely developed the traditional “sumihajiki” (ink resistance) technique into the “yukihana sumihajiki” (snow flower ink resistance) technique, which expresses subtle whites, and applies this to his works. He is also highly acclaimed domestically and internationally for incorporating unique techniques such as using platinum glazing to make works shine with a platinum color, and combining blown ink and pale ink for expression.
The Influence and Evaluation of Imaizumi Imaemon XIV in Japan and Abroad
Imaizumi Imaemon XIV stands out in Japan’s traditional craft world, with his works highly acclaimed both domestically and internationally. His influence extends beyond the ceramic art world, significantly impacting the next generation of artists and ceramic enthusiasts.
Here, we’ll discuss how Imaizumi Imaemon XIV is evaluated both in Japan and abroad, and his influence on the next generation of ceramic artists.
How is Imaizumi Imaemon XIV Evaluated Domestically and Internationally?
Imaizumi Imaemon XIV’s works are exhibited in numerous exhibitions both in Japan and abroad, with their artistic value widely recognized. His pieces, which modernly arrange traditional overglaze enamel porcelain techniques, are housed not only in Japanese museums but also in famous international museums.
Examples of overseas exhibitions include the British Museum in London and the Auckland Art Gallery in New Zealand. Additionally, his works fetch high prices at international auctions, indicating their high regard overseas.
In Japan, Imaizumi Imaemon XIV’s works are regularly featured in the Japan Traditional Art Crafts Exhibition and various solo exhibitions, consistently drawing attention. His works, which transcend the boundaries between traditional crafts and contemporary art, are particularly noted for demonstrating new possibilities in Japanese art.
Focus on Educational Activities for the Next Generation
In addition to his work as a ceramic artist, Imaizumi Imaemon XIV is dedicated to nurturing the next generation. For instance, he not only instructs young ceramic artists in his own workshop but also conducts lectures and workshops to convey the techniques and appeal of overglaze enamel porcelain to a wide range of age groups.
These educational activities extend beyond Japan to international settings, with many young ceramic artists seeking his guidance. He is also actively involved in preserving and passing on traditional crafts.
Imaizumi Imaemon XIV engages in a wide range of activities, including holding positions in organizations such as the Japan Kogei Association. Thus, his influence goes beyond the appreciation of his works, paving the way for the future of overglaze enamel porcelain through educational activities for the next generation of ceramic artists.
Conclusion
Imaizumi Imaemon XIV has breathed new life into Japan’s ceramic world by inheriting traditional overglaze enamel porcelain techniques while adding his own innovations. As a result, he has been designated as the youngest Living National Treasure in the field of ceramics.
Many of his works, particularly those using his signature techniques, give delicate gradations and depth to the pieces, vividly expressing the beauty of nature. When you next encounter a work created by Imaizumi Imaemon XIV, why not appreciate it with a deeper understanding of the history and highly valued techniques introduced in this article?
