This robust vase features an oval shaped rim—a new design for this year—decorated with bright yellow slip. The body is carved with lines accentuating the round form. The blue slip on the surface interacts with the clay to create a rustic surface. The shinogi—a traditional Japanese decorative technique—are carved carefully by hand into the surface of the piece. After bisque firing Akio applies colored slips and then glazes the pieces with translucent matte glaze. Beautiful to see and incredible to hold.