Kuroshuten

This is a black sake cup, the latest release from the kiln of Masao Akitani, a potter who studied under Living National Treasure Jun Isezaki and creates works brimming with unique originality amidst a new spirit. As Akitani-sensei himself called this firing a great success, this is a magnificent piece featuring deeply rich black tones and a generous application of natural glaze. The abundant natural glaze has transformed in places into cobalt blue and gold-like hues, which, combined with the wild, flowing "tamadare" (bead drips), offers so many highlights that one hardly knows where to look. The vessel’s surface features strata-like patterns created by fluidly shaving the clay with a spatula, a technique that pairs perfectly with the charming bowl-shaped form.

View blog post from Kawaguchi Tourakuen Signed wooden box to be provided later (please allow some time for shipping)
Diameter 7.1cm × Diameter 7.0cm × Height 4.5cm Masao Akitani was born in Saitama in 1968. In 1998, he began an apprenticeship under Living National Treasure Jun Isezaki. After ten years of training, he built his own kiln in Bizen and became independent in 2008, holding his first kiln opening in 2009. His works have been selected for the Tabe Museum's Chanoyu Modeling Exhibition and the Japan Kōgei Association Chugoku Branch Exhibition, and he has received awards such as the Okayama Prefectural Art Exhibition Prize and the Encouragement Award.