Bizen sake bottle

This is a Bizen sake bottle by Motomu Matono, who studied under the masters Mitsuaki Hihata and Ken Fujiwara and pursues a bold, expansive style. Its bright brown finish with *goma* (ash glaze) is a quintessential example of the classic Bizen aesthetic. The distinctive, full-bodied form, reminiscent of the work of Ken and Kei Fujiwara, is also wonderful. It is a simple, approachable piece characteristic of the Fujiwara school. Signed wooden box (double-braced lid)
Rim 3.8cm × Body diameter 10.3cm × 10.3cm × Height 14.2cm, Capacity approx. 480cc Motomu Matono graduated from the Department of Industrial Management at Osaka Institute of Technology in 1967 and worked for the Bizen City Office. Captivated by the allure of Bizen ware, he began visiting the home of potter Mitsuaki Hihata, learning pottery techniques in his spare time. He resigned from the city office in 1973. He studied pottery, particularly firing techniques, under the late Intangible Cultural Property holder Ken Fujiwara until his mentor's passing. In 1973, he built his own kiln at the foot of Mt. Yudachi-uke and became an independent artist. He has held solo exhibitions at department stores and other venues in Tokyo, Osaka, and across Japan.