{"product_id":"p1970","title":"Bizen sake bottle","description":"This is an earlier work by Matsui Kousei, who also mentored future generations as an instructor at the Ceramics Center. The sake bottle is incredibly powerful, capturing the appearance of scorched, flowing *goma* (ash glaze) caused by exposure to intense flames. The contrast between the understated, *shiso*-colored clay texture typical of Bizen ware and the dynamic, natural glaze is captivating. The dignified, broad-shouldered form exudes elegance, and the beautiful wire-cut marks on the base are a testament to the artisan's mastery.\n\nSigned wooden box (shiho-san style)\u003cbr\u003e\nRim 3.5cm × Body 8.7cm × 8.7cm × Height 13.2cm, Capacity approx. 400cc\n\nMatsui Kousei entered the National Kyoto Ceramics Research Institute in 1949, where he studied all aspects of pottery. After working for five years at the Kumamoto Prefectural Industrial Research Institute, he returned to Kyoto to study under Yoshimitsu Morino, a Kiyomizu-ware artist and Nitten exhibition judge. While still in training in 1960, he was invited by then-Okayama Governor Yukiharu Miki to join the Okayama Prefectural Industrial Research Institute's Ceramics Guidance Center. He dedicated himself to nurturing young artists before resigning as director to become independent in 1978. His firing techniques are based on natural glazes and *shiso* (perilla) hues. He also creates vibrant Bizen ware using unique techniques derived from his experience as a Kyo-yaki artist, including \"neriage\" (kneaded clay), as well as gold, silver, and indigo painting. \u003cbr\u003e\nBecame a full member of the Japan Kōgei Association in 1969. Designated as a Holder of Important Intangible Cultural Property of Okayama Prefecture in 1996. Exhibited at the Bizen Ware Paris Exhibition in 1997. Recipient of numerous awards, including the Kaneshige Toyo Award, the Okayama Prefecture Cultural Award, the Okayama Prefecture Cultural Encouragement Award, and the Sanyo Shimbun Award; served as a judge for prefectural exhibitions.","brand":"松井與之","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46618419888225,"sku":"1970","price":30000.0,"currency_code":"JPY","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0654\/9916\/8865\/files\/1970.jpg?v=1790235929","url":"https:\/\/tourakuen.myshopify.com\/en\/products\/p1970","provider":"川口陶楽苑","version":"1.0","type":"link"}