Bizen Hōhin

This is a Bizen houhin (teapot) by Sozan Kaneshige, a master famously known as the "uncrowned king." Works by Sozan are extremely rare and highly prized. The piece features a well-balanced distribution of goma (ash glaze), sangiri (reduction firing), and koge (scorched) effects, resulting in a sophisticated, deeply fired aesthetic. Crafted using a hand-formed tatara technique, the base was created from a single slab of clay, which was then encircled by another slab to build the body. The unique distortion and nuances created during this hand-forming process offer a profound sense of character, while the curved design of one side makes it exceptionally comfortable to hold.
Please note that this item did not originally come with a pamphlet. This is a Bizen houhin (teapot) by Sozan Kaneshige, a master famously known as the "uncrowned king." Works by Sozan are extremely rare and highly prized. The piece features a well-balanced distribution of goma (ash glaze), sangiri (reduction firing), and koge (scorched) effects, resulting in a sophisticated, deeply fired aesthetic. Crafted using a hand-formed tatara technique, the base was created from a single slab of clay, which was then encircled by another slab to build the body. The unique distortion and nuances created during this hand-forming process offer a profound sense of character, while the curved design of one side makes it exceptionally comfortable to hold.
Please note that this item did not originally come with a pamphlet. With signature box by Yuho (Shihozan construction)
Diameter 10.3cm x Diameter 8.7cm x Height 8.7cm Sozan Kaneshige (1909–1995) was the younger brother of Living National Treasure Toyo Kaneshige, with whom he worked until around 1951. Renowned for his Momoyama-style hidaski (fire-cord) patterns, he was considered a leading figure in tea ceramics. In 1964, he built the Maruyama kiln in the eastern suburbs of Okayama City, and in 1966, he gained acclaim for his Momoyama-style hidaski works created using an electric kiln. He moved to Inbe in 1982 to build the Ushigamishita kiln, and in 1983, he was designated a Prefectural Important Intangible Cultural Property holder. He received a Commissioner for Cultural Affairs Commendation, the Okayama Prefecture Cultural Award, and the Order of the Sacred Treasure, Fourth Class. He passed away in 1995.