This is the February 2007 issue of Me no Me (目の眼), a long-running Japanese magazine dedicated to antiques, traditional crafts, fine art and collecting. First published in 1977, the magazine is admired for its beautifully illustrated features and thoughtful exploration of Japanese artistic heritage, offering valuable insights into historic craftsmanship and the world of antique collecting.
The main feature of this issue is 「近代トッキョー窯 — 真葛香山のライバルたち」 (Modern Tokkyo Kilns – The Rivals of Makuzu Kōzan), exploring the remarkable world of Japanese decorative ceramics during the Meiji period and the talented ceramic artists who worked alongside and competed with the celebrated master Makuzu Kōzan.
The feature highlights the extraordinary technical skill and artistic ambition of Japanese potters during a period of rapid cultural transformation, when elaborate sculptural vessels, naturalistic decoration and innovative glazing techniques brought Japanese ceramics international recognition.
One particularly striking example is the work of Harita Ryokuzan (張田緑山), associated with Tokyo Sumida Ware (東京隅田焼). The beautifully illustrated interior pages feature an impressive Meiji-period ceramic vase decorated with a dramatic eagle spreading its wings above a rocky landscape, surrounded by intricate floral details and sculptural ornamentation. Its richly modelled surface and expressive composition demonstrate the exceptional craftsmanship and decorative imagination of the period.
The cover reproduces a close-up of this magnificent ceramic work, emphasizing the detailed modelling of the eagle's feathers, powerful expression and dynamic movement.
