Hello everyone, how are you doing?
For the eighth installment of our New Year's special project, I would like to introduce a Bizen "masu" (measuring box) by Hikaru Shimamura.
With his high-level design capabilities and rich sense of emotion, he is a leading figure in contemporary craftsmanship.
He is a true master, known for producing very little work and holding himself to noble principles.
When it comes to Hikaru Shimamura's masu, the one-go size is most popular,
but this piece is a one-sho size, resulting in a work with a tremendous sense of presence.
Despite its large, box-like form, it has absolutely no distortion or cracks,
showing that it was crafted with surprising precision by calculating the thickness of the clay.
In particular, because it is a cubic shape made from joined slabs rather than a sphere,
the risk of breakage or deformation during production must have been extremely high.
It was made with such high-level techniques, but because he does not show off that skill,
it carries that effortless air typical of Hikaru Shimamura and feels easy and fun to use.
With Setsubun coming up, it might be interesting to use it to hold beans.
If you look closely, the joints of the masu are expressed through inlay.
I was amazed by the flat, smooth, and beautiful finish on the inside.
It seems the new pottery seal being used is a "looking-back horse."
What did you think of the New Year’s special project, "Exhibition of Masterpieces"?
As the writer, I found that comparing these pieces in a series of articles led to various discoveries that I wouldn't have made by looking at the works individually.
I feel that the beauty of crafts like Bizen ware is how you can feel the creator's intentions while you use them.
Seeing with your eyes, touching with your skin, and tasting with your lips. Then, listening to the sound of the fired clay and being invited in by its pleasant aroma.
In this way, through the five senses, you converse, engage, and connect with the creator.
I will continue to strive to introduce vessels that move you.
Thank you for viewing the Exhibition of Masterpieces.
(Hikaru Shimamura/Bizen Large Masu)
size: dia. 18.3cm x dia. 18.4cm x height 9.2cm price: Sold
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