Sabina Juniper Pot Selection

[bonsaianak]

I styled this sabina juniper this week, and am now struggling to figure out what shape pot would best fit the tree. In my opinion, the thickness and deadwood at the base are characteristic of a "masculine" tree but as we move up the trunk, it becomes slender and curvy, suggesting "feminine" characteristics. As of now, I am leaning towards a rectangular pot with soft, rounded corners, but I haven't completely dismissed the option of maybe a mokko or even just an oval pot. What do you all think would be the best pot shape for this tree? a pot that emphasizes the masculine portion of the tree? or the latter? or something else entirely? I am open to as much feedback as you can give me. Thanks in advance!

A more detailed post about the journey of this tree can be seen on my instagram @/bonsaianak if you are interested!

I photoshopped these pots for inspiration from Ryan Neil's trees from the Bonsai Mirai gallery.

 

[Bonsai Nut]

Cool tree! There is a lot going on with the design, so I prefer a cleaner pot silhouette that is strong enough to compliment the tree. I like the last pot - the steep vertical sides and the color. I also think the size (in your virt) is more appropriate for the tree, versus the first pot is far too large.

 

[PiñonJ]

I also like the fourth pot, mostly for the color and finish, but also for the straight sides, as @Bonsai Nut mentioned. If all you had to choose from was a more traditional pot, the second photo would be best, of those that you show, but I think a softer rectangle, without the outward flare would work better. If you want a pot like the fourth, you'll have to commission it from Ron Lang (I believe that's one of his).

 

[bonsaianak]

Cool tree! There is a lot going on with the design, so I prefer a cleaner pot silhouette that is strong enough to compliment the tree. I like the last pot - the steep vertical sides and the color. I also think the size (in your virt) is more appropriate for the tree, versus the first pot is far too large.

thanks for the input! to be honest i didn't even think of the balance that a clean, simple pot would contribute to the composition. my mind went straight to convention and the difference between masculine and feminine trees rather than picking a pot that would harmonize with the entirety of the tree. learning more everyday! thanks!

 

[bonsaianak]

I also like the fourth pot, mostly for the color and finish, but also for the straight sides, as @Bonsai Nut mentioned. If all you had to choose from was a more traditional pot, the second photo would be best, of those that you show, but I think a softer rectangle, without the outward flare would work better. If you want a pot like the fourth, you'll have to commission it from Ron Lang (I believe that's one of his).

you know your pots! its definitely a Ron Lang and to be specific its currently the pot for Ryan Neil's sierra juniper #2. i dont think ill be able to get my hands on a Ron Lang ceramic anytime soon, so i think a rectangular pot without an outward flare as you mentioned would the most feasible compromise. thanks for the input!

 

[sorce]

I think the mirror shaped pot pairs best with the wild movement of the trunk. The simpler pots seem to bring out the wierdness of the way, making it look less like a tree and more like a try.

I feel like you need the weight of that lower jin, to give the appearance of life coming from there rather than just dropping down from above, but I also think it needs to be lessened.

I think it will grow into a more specific gender.

Sorce