Bernard Leach (1887-1979) Tenmoku Glazed Stem Vase, Leech Pottery, st Ives (c1960s) UK

Bernard Leach Tenmoku Glazed Stem Vase

A small studio pottery stem vase by Bernard Leach (1887–1979), finished in a rich dark tenmoku glaze. The base bears both the impressed Leach Pottery seal and Bernard Leach’s personal seal.

Bernard Leach was one of the most influential figures in twentieth century British studio pottery. Born in Hong Kong and raised partly in Japan, his work brought together Japanese ceramic traditions with ideas drawn from English slipware and European pottery.

In 1920, Leach returned to England with the Japanese potter Shoji Hamada, establishing the Leach Pottery in St Ives, Cornwall. The pottery became enormously influential, helping to shape the development of studio ceramics in Britain and introducing generations of potters to Japanese approaches to materials, firing and craftsmanship.

Tenmoku glazes have their origins in Chinese ceramics and were particularly admired in Japan. Their characteristic deep brown-black surface can vary considerably in the firing, giving each piece a subtly individual finish.

Dimensions: H 8.5cm

Maker: Bernard Leach

Manufacturer: Leach Pottery, St Ives

Material: Stoneware

Glaze: Tenmoku

Marks: Impressed Leach Pottery and Bernard Leach personal seals

No signs of damage or restoration.