Kutani Ware Figurine "Praying Mantis" / Taka Toshifumi

"Praying Mantis" by Taka Toshifumi, one of contemporary Kutani ware's most representative artists.
Carrying forward Kutani traditions such as "saishiki kinrande" (gold brocade coloring) and "hanazume" (flower-packed pattern), Taka Toshifumi is one of today's most closely watched artists for his modern sensibility in depicting insects and animals. His meticulous brushwork transcends mere craft, imbuing the vessel with a presence so vivid it feels as though real life has been captured within it.

This piece masterfully captures the mantis's sharp stance and coiled power, conveying both a sense of imminent motion and a quiet, latent vitality. The gold-centered "kinrande" painting vividly enhances the beauty of the mantis's form, lending it unparalleled brilliance and a refined sense of luxury.

A defining feature of this work is its fusion of ceramic and metal. The head, forelegs, and wings — the painted elements — are formed in porcelain, while the four legs supporting the body are custom-made brass, crafted in Takaoka, Toyama Prefecture. The contrast between the delicate, ornate Kutani painting and the substantial weight of the brass creates a striking interplay of materials, lending the work a distinctly modern and profound character.

Taka is one of a rare few artists today to faithfully carry forward the painting style of Kutani Shoza, the legendary master craftsman who once captivated the world and helped drive the Japonisme movement in the West. From the vivid colors and dancing gold of "saishiki kinrande" to the extraordinarily demanding technique of "akae saibyo" (fine red-line painting), Taka's command of Kutani's full range of traditional techniques shines through in every detail of this highly artistic work.

Beyond the painting itself, Taka's true mastery lies in his fully custom, made-to-order approach — designing every element, from the clay body itself, entirely by his own hand. Traditional technique, the natural beauty of form, and the striking contrast between materials come together here in an overwhelming vision — a truly rare and one-of-a-kind piece.

Size: Width (front) 15.5cm × Depth 13cm × Height 12cm
Box Type: Paulownia wood box with dedicated case