Bizen sake bottle

This is a Bizen sake flask by the popular young artist Yoshiteru Koriki, who was an inner disciple of the late master Sozan Kaneshige. The hallmark of this piece is its magnificent *yohen* (kiln transformation) featuring striking *kumadori* (kabuki-style makeup) patterns. The color of the *nuke* (uncovered areas) is truly superb, representing a work where constant study of the clay's character has blossomed under the unpredictable whims of the fire god. The brilliant scarlet, which seems to burn yet remains refined, will develop beautifully over time if you rub in any stray drops of sake after pouring or collect the remaining sake in your palm to polish the surface. The *nuke*, which initially has a subtle texture reminiscent of frosted glass, will become increasingly smooth and polished as you handle it. This is a classic yet deeply expressive sake flask, perfect for those just beginning their collection of Bizen ware. Signed wooden box (shiho-san)
Rim 3.5cm × Body diameter 9.0cm × Height 13.6cm; Capacity 390cc Yoshiteru Koriki was born in Ako City, Hyogo Prefecture. Influenced by his father, who loved pottery, he set his heart on the path of ceramic art. After graduating from high school, he began an apprenticeship in 1989 under the father-and-son duo of Sozan and Yuho Kaneshige to learn the techniques of the craft. Following seven years of training, he built his own climbing kiln in Shizutani, Bizen City, in 1996 to strike out on his own, successfully firing his first kiln the following year. He held his first solo exhibition in Tokyo in 2000 and has held annual exhibitions ever since. In 1999, his work was selected for the "Northern Confectionery Vessels I Want to Use" exhibition, and in 2002, he received his first selection for the "Forms of Tea Ceremony" exhibition.