Hello everyone, how are you doing?
Following up on our last article, today I would like to introduce the new works of Yoshinobu Morimoto.
This time, we have unglazed Karatsu ware created with the goal of emulating Oku-Korai style.
These sake cups feature a generous, simple form with a thin glaze, offering a refined elegance amidst their unassuming nature.
Although they look rustic, they are crafted from finely grained clay that has been thoroughly fired,
and with the fine crackling (kannyu) caused by the thinly applied glaze, they seem likely to age beautifully with use.
Both the clay and the glaze have been precisely researched and adjusted to match the intended Karatsu style.
This strong commitment is truly characteristic of Morimoto-sensei.
Within the thin glaze, there is a slightly thicker drip that adds a touch of variation to the landscape of the piece.
The rim is thin and sharp, finished with utmost modesty, which also suggests it will be a pleasure to drink from.
The loquat color, with its slightly strong reddish tinge, is wonderfully subtle.
This one also features a thick glaze drip amidst the thin coating.
The crackling has developed perfectly according to the thickness, and it seems set to change quite quickly.
What did you think of Morimoto-sensei's new unglazed Karatsu sake cups?
There is a saying, "Bizen for sake bottles, Karatsu for sake cups," which speaks to how flavorful and excellent Karatsu sake cups are.
In particular, these pieces aim for the powerful style of Oku-Korai, which has captivated many tea masters.
They are finished to be as thin and humble as possible, without any sense of artificiality.
It is difficult to put into words, but it is close to that "impersonality" in a very positive sense found in ancient ceramics—a feeling where the artist's presence is not felt, and the work itself captivates you with its own inherent power.
Thanks to the characteristic ease with which Karatsu ware develops character, I believe these will be enjoyable pieces to use.
(Yoshinobu Morimoto / Unglazed Karatsu Sake Cup (left) size: 7.3cm diam. x 7.2cm diam. x 5.8cm height price: Sold)
(Yoshinobu Morimoto / Unglazed Karatsu Sake Cup (right) size: 7.6cm diam. x 7.4cm diam. x 6.0cm height price: Sold)
For detailed images of the works, please contact us below.
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