Bizen sake bottle

This is a Bizen sake flask by Rokuro Nakamura, a master craftsman who took great pride in Bizen ware and was hailed as a god of sake vessel creation. This piece dates from around his 70s, a period shortly before his later years, and can be considered a prototype for the flattened flask (henko) shape that would become his signature work. While it has some height, it possesses the distinct roundedness that carries over to his later years, and its full, plump shape is rustic and approachable. The earthiness of the clay, with a hint of a warm glow, features a soft scarlet hue ideal for a sake flask. Combined with a sense of familiarity, as if it has been a long-time companion, this piece is crafted to be enjoyed for many years to come. (*Please note that while there is almost no sign of use and the surface still retains its original texture, this is a pre-owned work.) Signed wooden box (double-slat lid)
Rim 3.5cm x Body diameter 10.0cm x Body diameter 9.8cm x Height 12.8cm; Capacity approx. 460cc Rokuro Nakamura worked for a company until the end of the war, but in 1945, he began studying under the Living National Treasure Toyo Kaneshige to hone his skills, eventually establishing his own Rokuro Kiln in 1961. He favored creating sake vessels like flasks on the potter's wheel, though he also worked with slab-building techniques to create teapots, Kyusu teapots, and tea bowls. His style was rustic and wild, and as his work was unglazed, he placed great importance on the firing process and took great care in loading the kiln, which determined the quality of his pieces. He was named a Traditional Craftsman in 1986, the same year he received the Okayama Nichinichi Shimbun Award, and in 1989, he was awarded the Order of the Blue Paulownia Leaves in the spring decorations. He passed away in April 2004.