Bizen Tokkuri

This is a Bizen sake bottle by Kei Fujiwara, an artist beloved by all for a warm style that radiated gentleness and a bold, open-hearted nature. The sake bottle features a serene scarlet hue, reminiscent of the sunset over Katakami Bay, which can be seen from the Kei Fujiwara Memorial Museum. The *hidasuki* (fire-cord) markings that appear in the *nuke* (uncovered) areas emit a faint, silvery glow, creating a tranquil atmosphere. The naturalistic beauty of its form, which perfectly complements the quiet firing, is also captivating, and one can sense a shimmering elegance within its simple style. Signed wooden box by Keisuke (with cross-batten lid)
Rim 3.7cm x Body 9.3cm x 9.2cm x Height 13.0cm Capacity approx. 450cc Kei Fujiwara (1899–1983, born in Bizen City, Okayama Prefecture) entered the world of Bizen ware at the suggestion of Atsuo Masamune, a scholar of Japanese literature living in Honami, Bizen City. He received instruction in techniques such as wheel-throwing from Ume-kage Mimura, and from 1941, he further honed his ceramic skills by learning firing methods from his fellow Living National Treasure, Toyo Kaneshige. Following the simplicity and boldness seen in the utilitarian wares of the Kamakura and Muromachi periods, he produced jars and vases with a generous and clear-cut style. The artistic education he absorbed in his youth influenced his works. In 1954, he became the second person to be designated a holder of an Important Intangible Cultural Property (Living National Treasure) for Bizen ware, and in 1958, he became a director of the Japan Kōgei Association. He established the Kei Fujiwara Memorial Museum in Bizen City, Okayama Prefecture, in 1977.
Major awards: Okayama Prefecture Cultural Award, Sanyo Shimbun Award, Chugoku Cultural Award, Honorary Citizen of Bizen City, Honorary Resident of Okayama Prefecture; posthumously awarded the Order of the Sacred Treasure, Gold Rays with Neck Ribbon (Third Class).