Bizen Tokkuri

This is a Bizen sake bottle by Kei Fujiwara, an artist beloved by all for his bold, open-hearted style that radiates warmth. The piece features a soft, earthy texture with a slightly scarlet hue, complemented by matted *goma* (ash glaze) effects. *There is a small "kutsuki" (kiln adhesion) mark. Created during his middle period in Idamura, the clay, which contains a relatively high amount of stone, has matured into a magnificent, soft orange color. Perhaps reflecting the nature of Fujiwara-sensei, who dearly loved sake, this deeply characterful clay seems to blush when seasoned and used for drinking. Original signed wooden box (shiho-san style)
Rim 3.8cm x Body 9.4cm x 9.4cm x Height 14.1cm; Capacity approx. 400cc Kei Fujiwara (1899–1983, born in Bizen City, Okayama Prefecture) was encouraged to pursue the path of Bizen pottery by Atsuo Masamune, a scholar of Japanese literature living in Honami, Bizen. He received instruction in wheel throwing from Baikkei Mimura, and from 1941, he studied firing techniques and refined his craft under fellow Living National Treasure Toyo Kaneshige. Emulating the rustic simplicity and boldness found in the utilitarian wares of the Kamakura and Muromachi periods, he created jars and vases with a generous and clear style. His youthful exposure to the arts had a profound influence on his work. In 1954, he became the second individual to be designated a Living National Treasure for Bizen pottery, and in 1958, he became a director of the Japan Kōgei Association. In 1977, the Kei Fujiwara Memorial Museum was established in Bizen City, Okayama.
Major awards and honors: Okayama Prefecture Cultural Award, Sanyo Shimbun Prize, Chugoku Cultural Award; Honorary Citizen of Bizen City; Honorary Resident of Okayama Prefecture; posthumously awarded the Order of the Sacred Treasure, Third Class (Junior Fifth Rank).