Hello everyone, how are you all doing?
Following my previous post, today I would like to introduce some new works by Junpei Kaneshige that have just been taken out of the kiln.
This time, I would like to introduce some wonderful sake vessels featuring two types of Hidasuki (fire-cord) firing.
Among these Hidasuki sake vessels, the sake cups were fired in an electric kiln, while the sake bottles were fired in a wood-burning climbing kiln.
While they both share excellent Hidasuki coloration, there is a significant difference in the shade of the underlying clay.
The sake cups have a clean "moxa" color typical of electric kiln firing, and the Hidasuki patterns have a somewhat sharper hue.
The sake bottles have a toasted base, and the Hidasuki patterns have a glossy, amber-like sheen.
In unglazed Bizen ware, Hidasuki—which avoids even natural glaze and relies solely on the raw surface of the clay—means the quality of the clay directly dictates the results.
It is said that his grandfather, the late Toyo Kaneshige, also used a special clay for his Hidasuki works.
Being able to compare these two types of Hidasuki at this time, I was once again struck by the high quality of Junpei-sensei's clay.
These sake vessels are of a high standard in every respect: the sharpness of the Hidasuki, the texture of the skin, and the aesthetic appeal of the clay surface.
I am certain that the fragrant, atmospheric Hidasuki will further enhance the aroma of the sake you pour into them.
The exceptional clarity of the red comes from the quality of the clay; it is nothing short of magnificent.
By comparing the clay character of the bases, one can feel the depth of Hidasuki firing.
The sake bottle features a straight, thick body, reminiscent of an old Bizen Akoda (pumpkin-shaped) bottle.
The application of the Hidasuki varies delicately across different sections; such well-conceived Hidasuki possesses an overwhelming presence, much like antique Bizen ware.
Inside the sake cup, there is a Hidasuki ring around the rim, while the bottom shows the white clay typical of an unglazed finish.
The clean, white clay quality is unique to electric kiln firing.
It has a unique allure like wet lips, and I look forward to seeing how it changes when wet with sake.
(Junpei Kaneshige / Various Hidasuki sake vessels, including original wooden boxes)
Hidasuki Sake Bottle size: 9.1cm dia. × 9.2cm dia. × 15.4cm height price: Sold
Hidasuki Sake Cup size: 7.2cm dia. × 7.1cm dia. × 5.8cm height price: Sold
For detailed images of these works, please contact us below.
Tel 0869-67-2210 Fax 0869-67-2220
Email to Kawaguchi Tourakuen (clicking will open your email client)