TSURU SKULL - 鶴の頭蓋骨

Ceramic & glaze, 2023

8” x 6” x 5”

"Tsuru Skull" is a hand-sculpted ceramic piece that delves into the intricate symbolism between life and death. Translating to "Crane Skull" in Japanese, this piece was modeled after an authentic human skull. The choice of a bright turquoise glaze creates a striking contrast against the depictions of clouds and a crane, executed in the style of traditional Japanese illustration. In folklore, the crane is often associated with longevity, good fortune, and spiritual transcendence, while clouds symbolize the ephemeral nature of existence and the passage of time. This juxtaposition against the backdrop of the skull serves as a poignant reminder of the cycle of life and death and on the enduring legacy of Japanese symbolism.

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