Ichijiku (Japanese fig wood) vase by Masahito Ikeda

This spectacular vase in Japanese ichijiku wood, created by Masahito Ikeda, impresses with its sculptural presence and the expressive power of its material. The craftsman chose a section of tree marked by time, where knots, crevices, and dark veins tell the story of the plant. Heavy, dense, and perfectly balanced, this vase combines power and gentleness: the refined form allows the natural irregularities of the wood to converse with the precision of its creation. Every fracture and every mark of the fig tree is respected, magnified; the master's hand has revealed what the tree already held.

The craftsman

Masahito Ikeda, born in 1978 in Hyōgo and raised in Osaka, founded Thursday Furniture after studying interior design at Seian Zōkei University and completing a professional woodworking course in Matsubara, Osaka. He established his brand, Thursday Furniture, in 2015 in Nishinomiya (Hyōgo Prefecture) and moved his workshop to Toyonaka (Osaka Prefecture) in 2017. His work focuses on solid and reclaimed wood, paying attention to the marks of time and natural textures, and encompasses both furniture and turned objects for the home.

The technique and the decor

Fig wood (ichijiku), rarely used for this type of piece, requires a rigorous approach due to its structural irregularities, deep knots, and internal tensions that can cause cracking during drying. Here, Masahito Ikeda worked with respect for the tree's history: he preserves and enhances the fissured areas, torn fibers, and exposed knots, integrating them as compositional elements. The natural contrasts, from light beige to darker brown, create a vibrant relief that evokes the bark and heartwood. A glass tube, perfectly calibrated at the opening, allows for the addition of water for a floral arrangement if desired. The vase can also be displayed as is, a spectacular decorative piece.

Practical information

Place
Japan (Toyonaka, Osaka Prefecture)

Dimensions
Diameter 19 cm – Height 20 cm

Weight
1176 gr

Materials
Japanese fig wood (ichijiku), glass tube

Period
Contemporary

Maintenance tips
Wipe regularly with a soft, dry cloth; avoid prolonged moisture and direct heat. Rinse the glass tube with clean water after use.