Bizen Chawan

This tea bowl is by Shusaku Taku, an artist who takes the inspiration of daily life as his "yeast" to shape Bizen ware, a craft that has matured alongside the continuous activities of people throughout history. Carefully formed using the coil-building technique, the piece possesses a serene silhouette reminiscent of Raku ware, while simultaneously containing a great deal of movement. In particular, the creases near the base where the clay was stretched by finger pressure resemble gathered fabric, brilliantly expressing the tenacity of Bizen clay. The exterior is coated with a generous mist of fine "sesame" glaze (goma), while the interior is left unglazed to showcase the movement of the clay and feature a beautiful *hidasuki* (fire-cord) pattern.

Interview with Shusaku Taku Signed wooden box to be provided later (please allow some time for delivery)
Diameter 11.7cm × 11.7cm × Height 9.2cm Shusaku Taku was born in 1980 as the eldest son of Mamoru Taku. He graduated from the Saga Prefectural Arita College of Ceramics in 2001 and began his apprenticeship under his father. In 2002, he received the Okayama Prefectural Board of Education Superintendent's Award at the Japan Traditional Crafts Chugoku Branch Exhibition. In 2004, he won the Excellence Award at the Tanabe Museum of Art Tea Ceremony Molding Exhibition. He has also been selected for various exhibitions, including the Okayama Prefectural Art Exhibition and the Japan Traditional Crafts Chugoku Branch Exhibition.