Bizen sake bottle

This Bizen sake flask was created by Masamune Toko during his Kengo period, a time when he captured the hearts of many by reimagining the aesthetic of antique Bizen ware for the modern day. The kiln transformation, featuring a deep "nuke" (clearance) amidst a well-fired wine-red clay body, creates a magnificent landscape that perfectly balances intensity and softness. The gourd shape, with its exquisite curves formed by skillful wheel work, is beautifully accented by finger-pressed detailing that speaks to the artist's extraordinary sense of design. While powerful, the piece is not overbearing, truly capturing a withered elegance reminiscent of ancient Bizen ware. Signed wooden box (double-slat lid)
Mouth 3.1cm x Body diameter 9.9cm x Body diameter 9.8cm x Height 14.3cm; Capacity 320cc Masamune Toko (Kengo) was inspired to pursue pottery by the encouragement of his grandfather, who worked at a kiln. After graduating from high school, he joined the Bizen Pottery Center to study the craft. In 1977, he established his own kiln in Inbe, Bizen City. He focused on producing flower vases, flattened jars, and sake flasks, specializing in wheel-thrown pieces with an antique Bizen style. He became a full member of the Japan Kōgei Association in 1983. In 1997, he won the Grand Prize at the Yakishime Ceramics Competition, followed by the Excellence Award at the Chanoyu Modeling Exhibition in 2000. He held solo exhibitions in cities such as Tokyo and Yokohama. He changed his name to Masamune Toko in 2005. He passed away in November 2006 at the young age of 53.