Hello everyone, how are you doing?
Following yesterday, today I would like to introduce a tokkuri (sake flask) where you can see the vitality of the clay expressed through its subtle, earthy flavor.
At first glance, it displays a magnificent "shiso" (red perilla) color reminiscent of the Kaneshige school.
Rokuro-sensei was also deeply connected to the Kaneshige family—revered by Toyo-sensei for his kiln firing, yet scolded when he presented his own sake cups.
Perhaps it was his admiration for the great master Toyo Kaneshige, who brought fame to their hometown, that led him to work so tirelessly in pursuit of his mentor.
There is the famous concept of "shu-ha-ri" (follow, break, transcend), and I believe this piece is an excellent work from the "shu" (follow/mastering basics) stage, before he reached the unique artistic realm of his later years.
The "nuke" (clear area) is orange, surrounded by a rich shiso-red.
Its surface, slightly imbued with a luminous quality, is a soft, supple texture that makes a connoisseur's heart flutter.
It has a charming, rounded turnip shape.
This style became less common in his later years, making this a rare piece.
A mouth design so superb it makes you want to cling to it, or perhaps one that clings to you.
One demands both ease of use and a certain allure from the rim, and this piece perfectly fulfills those desires.
The lower part is well-fired, displaying scorched sesame-like ash glaze.
What did you think?
Judging by the condition of the box and other details, this piece dates from a period slightly before his final years.
Earlier works often feature clay with higher iron content, resulting in a darker finish.
This period serves as a turning point leading toward the "ha" (break) and "ri" (transcend) stages.
Next time, I will introduce a "ha" (break) style tokkuri, fitting for the finale of our special exhibition on Rokuro-sensei.