Bizen sake bottle

This Bizen sake bottle is by Tomio Ochi, who worked silently at the kiln under the tutelage of Yasuhito Abe, pouring his lingering aspirations into his pottery. The unique texture of the clay, reminiscent of wet red brick, actually conceals a brown earthen surface, resulting in an Ochi-style "all-over" *hidasuki* (fire-cord) pattern where the balance between the clay's character and the fire-cord is reversed. This "trick hidasuki" is further adorned by thick, liquid-like *goma* (ash glaze), transforming the deceptive, reversible landscape into something even more singular. The form, which emphasizes the constrictions at the neck and waist, possesses a sensuality akin to a nude statue, reflecting the essence of the sculpture and painting that have become part of the artist's very flesh and blood. Signed wooden box to follow (please allow some time for shipping)
Rim 3.7cm x Body 8.0cm x 7.8cm x Height 12.6cm Capacity approx. 180cc Tomio Ochi graduated from Niihama Technical High School in Ehime Prefecture in 1949. In 1952, he moved to Tokyo to study oil painting and sculpture. Thereafter, he pursued painting and sculpture while working in a corporate position. In 1997, he visited Yasuhito Abe in Ushimado, Setouchi City, Okayama Prefecture, to receive his tutelage. In 1998, he built his own kiln in Ushimado, Setouchi City, Okayama Prefecture, and has since been dedicated to creating Bizen ware, drawing upon his background in sculpture and painting.