Bizen Tokkuri

This is a Bizen sake flask by Rinpei Watanabe, who experiments with various approaches to draw closer to the works that have moved him. Every meticulously crafted detail reveals the intense passion he brings to his pottery, driven by a desire to express what he himself has found so inspiring. The surface texture evokes the feel of ancient Bizen ware that has slumbered deep beneath the earth or sea for centuries; the rugged yet supple finish possesses a matte quality that makes it hard to believe it was created in modern times. The shift in the clay's character caused by the "kise-yaki" (covered firing) technique is fascinating, and the hidden areas have naturally developed into magnificent *hidasuki* (fire-cord) markings, just like antique Bizen. This single piece offers a glimpse into the artist's deep reverence for ancient Bizen ware. Signed wooden box to follow at a later date (please allow some time for shipping).
Rim 4.4cm x Body Diameter 9.4cm x Body Diameter 9.3cm x Height 15.0cm; Capacity approx. 340cc Rinpei Watanabe was born in Okayama Prefecture in 1974. In 2001, he completed his studies at the Bizen Pottery Center and apprenticed under Anjin Abe. In 2002, he built an underground anagama kiln and conducted his first firing in 2003.