Hayashi Shotaro, Monumental Platter, Undated

Ceramic
14 x 66 x 47cm
Condition: Very good

-

Hayashi Shotaro (Japanese, 1947–2020) was a master ceramicist celebrated for his innovative approach to form, texture, and materiality. Hayashi was trained at the Kyoto City University of Arts, where he honed his expertise in both classical and contemporary ceramic techniques. Throughout his career, Hayashi exhibited widely across Japan and internationally, earning recognition for his ability to merge tradition with modernity. His works have been showcased at esteemed institutions such as the National Museum of Modern Art, Kyoto, and the International Ceramics Festival in Mino.

A key figure in contemporary Japanese ceramics, Hayashi’s legacy lies in his ability to elevate clay beyond function, presenting it as a medium for sculptural and philosophical exploration. His works pushed the boundaries of ceramic sculpture, balancing technical precision with organic spontaneity. 

He is known for his distinctive sculptural forms, often abstract yet imbued with a deep reverence for nature. His surfaces, marked by rich glazes, crackled textures, and asymmetrical contours, reflected his sensitivity to the passage of time and the transformative power of fire. His works remain highly regarded in both private and public collections, embodying the enduring spirit of Japanese ceramic artistry.

(Photographed in January 2025)