Bizen-ware Rinka Bowl

This Bizen-ware Rinka (fluted) bowl was created by the Living National Treasure, Yu Fujiwara, who expanded the reach of Bizen ware not only within Japan but across the globe. While the fluted motif often conveys an elegant impression, in the hands of Fujiwara, known for his bold and heroic style, it takes on a surprisingly rugged character. The rich, vivid "shiso" (perilla-leaf) color achieved through carefully selected clay is full of the vitality characteristic of authentic Bizen ware. This is complemented by beautiful yellow "goma" (sesame) glaze, making the piece a sight to behold and a valuable addition to any collection, even when simply displayed. Original wooden box (Shiho-san) included
Diameter 30.7cm x Diameter 30.4cm x Height 11.7cm Yu Fujiwara (1932–2001, born in Bizen City, Okayama Prefecture) was the eldest son of the Living National Treasure, Kei Fujiwara. His motto for pottery was "simple, clear, and heroic," and he became known as "Yu of the Vases" for his many works in that form. Influenced by Rosanjin Kitaoji, he was also highly skilled in creating tableware. Starting in 1972, he held a series of themed exhibitions, including the "100 Vases Exhibition," "Tokkuri (Sake Flask) Exhibition," "100 Flowers Exhibition," and "100 Bowls Exhibition." He also produced many large-scale reliefs and objects. He received the Japan Ceramic Society Award in 1967, was designated a Prefectural Holder of Important Intangible Cultural Property in 1980, and in 1996, he became the first person in the pottery world to be designated a National Holder of Important Intangible Cultural Property (Living National Treasure) as the second generation of a father-son pair.
Major awards include the Kaneshige Toyo Award, Okayama Prefecture Cultural Encouragement Award and Cultural Award, Sanyo Shimbun Award, Chugoku Cultural Award, Minister of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology's Art Encouragement Prize, Academia Art and Culture Grand Prize, and the Medal with Blue Ribbon.