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Matsui Kosei: Master of Neriage

An exhibition in collaboration with deBiousse&West

34 Wigmore Street, London W1
Thursday 24 September – Sunday 18 October

 

Matsui Kosei (1927-2003) is widely acknowledged for his mastery of the demanding ceramic technique of neriage. In 1993 was designated a Living National Treasure of Japan for his transformation of the tradition.

The exhibition, curated by deBiousse&West gallery, brings Matsui's neriage works from the 1970s through the 1990s into an environment that places his work in dialogue with another longstanding tradition of making – one in which the qualities of the materials and the processes through which they are transformed remain central.


Nigel Slater, collector of both Matsui Kosei ceramics and Margaret Howell clothing, reflects on the life of Matsui and the relationship with material, craftsmanship and restraint shared by both designers.

‘The sources from which he derived the forms, colours and patterns of his work extended far beyond nature and art. Literature, music and even women’s fashion became subjects of his fascination and inspiration.’ – Matsui Koyo, son of Matsui Kosei

To mark the exhibition a hardback book has been specially published by deBiousse&West gallery. 

Focusing on a distinctive period of Matsui Kosei’s practice from the 1970s to the 1990s, the illustrated book explores his remarkable use of colour, pattern, texture and form through a selection of key works.

Limited to an edition of 250, the book is available at the exhibition and online.



BUY THE BOOK

With special thanks to Nigel Slater and Haydn West

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