Bizen tea bowl

This is a Bizen tea bowl by Kei Fujiwara, a master beloved by all for his bold, candid, and warmly expressive style. The rich, dense quality of the clay, reminiscent of the works of Toyo Kaneshige, can truly be called a supreme firing achieved only through the use of carefully selected, high-quality clay. The balance between the *hi-dasuki* (fire-cord) markings and the *goma* (sesame-like ash glaze) is excellent, perfectly embodying the essence of Bizen ware: that even the simple flavor of unadorned clay can reveal infinite variation and depth. Its grand, imposing form is also superb, reflecting the vibrant and pleasant style characteristic of Fujiwara’s middle period. Signed wooden box (shiho-san) included
Diameter 14.0cm × Diameter 13.3cm × Height 9.9cm Kei Fujiwara (1899–1983, born in Bizen City, Okayama Prefecture) entered the world of Bizen pottery at the suggestion of Atsuo Masamune, a scholar of Japanese literature living in Honami, Bizen. He received initial training in wheel-throwing from Baikage Mimura, and from 1941, he further refined his skills by learning firing techniques from fellow Living National Treasure, Toyo Kaneshige. Emulating the simplicity and boldness found in the utilitarian wares of the Kamakura and Muromachi periods, he produced jars and vases with an open and clear style. The artistic education he absorbed in his youth greatly influenced his work. In 1954, he became the second individual to be designated a Living National Treasure for Bizen ware, and in 1958, he became a director of the Japan Kōgei Association. In 1977, he established the Kei Fujiwara Memorial Museum in Bizen City, Okayama.
Major awards and honors include: Okayama Prefectural Cultural Award, Sanyo Shimbun Award, Chugoku Cultural Award; named Honorary Citizen of Bizen City and Honorary Resident of Okayama Prefecture; posthumously awarded the Junior Fifth Rank and the Order of the Sacred Treasure, Gold Rays with Neck Ribbon.