Chris Powell Crystalline Ikebana Vase – Cobalt Blue Studio Art Pottery Kenzan

This exceptional ikebana vessel is a verified early work by the highly regarded American ceramicist Chris Powell. Powell’s career spans over four decades, with his work being held in prestigious permanent collections such as the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston. This specific piece dates to the late 1980s, a pivotal era in Powell’s development when he was honing the high-precision throwing and complex glazing techniques that have since made his work "investment grade" for pottery collectors.

The exclusivity of this piece lies in its Crystalline Glaze, a process so volatile and technically demanding that few potters attempt it. By meticulously controlling the kiln’s cooling cycle, Powell allowed macro-crystals to "bloom" within the cobalt glass, resulting in the ethereal, starburst patterns seen here. Because these crystals grow organically during firing, no two pieces are ever the same. This is not merely a functional flower frog; it is a documented piece of American studio art history.

Condition Report
This vase is in pristine vintage condition. The high-gloss crystalline glaze is free of chips, cracks, or surface scratches. The interior metal kenzan (pin frog) is original and fully functional. The underside retains its original protective felt pads and features the crisp, hand-incised "CP" signature and the production number "14."

The Specs
Dimensions: 4.5" Diameter x 1.5" Height
Weight: 14 oz
Materials: High-fired Ceramic, Zinc-Silicate Crystals, Brass/Lead Kenzan
Year it was made: Circa 1987-1990
Maker/Artist: Chris Powell (Signed "CP")