Black Totem

Black Totem

A tall, columnar, dual-display ceramic vase composed of stacked geometric discs and finished in black. Its block-like construction and uncompromising verticality give it a strong brutalist presence.

This is one vase, two ways by design — intentionally made to be displayed either way up. Used upright, it is a low, wide suiban; inverted, it becomes a tall nageire. The silhouette completely changes depending on orientation, offering two distinct vases in one form.

Its stacked discs form a totem-like profile. One of Sofu Teshigahara's given-name kanji is stamped inside the well, providing clear provenance. The foot was intentionally painted black after firing to conceal the unglazed base when displayed inverted; areas of paint loss to this post-firing paint are expected and are not kiln flaws. This documented model appears in mid-century ikebana publications.

Comes with the original battered and Sofu Teshigahara labelled cardboard box.

Vintage pieces may show signs of age and prior use, including surface wear, glaze variation, firing irregularities, kiln marks, minor staining and other characteristics acquired over time. The photographs provide further detail on the individual character and condition of the piece.

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