Bizen sake bottle

This Bizen sake flask is by Tomio Ochi, an artist who diligently dedicated himself to firing kilns under the tutelage of Yasuhito Abe, pouring his still-unsatisfied passion into his pottery. The unique texture of the clay, reminiscent of wet red brick, actually conceals a brown earth base, resulting in an "Ochi-style" all-over *hi-dasuki* (fire-cord) effect where the balance between the clay texture and the scarlet markings is reversed. This "trick" *hi-dasuki* is adorned with thick, liquid-like *goma* (ash glaze), transforming the inverted landscape—much like a trompe l'oeil—into something even more singular. The form, which emphasizes the constriction of the neck and waist, possesses a sensuality akin to a female nude, reflecting the essence of the sculpture and painting that have become part of Tomio Ochi's very being. Signed wooden box to follow (please allow some time for shipping)
Mouth diameter 3.7cm × Body diameter 8.0cm × 8.0cm × Height 12.5cm Capacity approx. 170cc Tomio Ochi graduated from Ehime Prefectural Niihama Technical High School in 1949. He moved to Tokyo in 1952 to study oil painting and sculpture. From then on, he pursued painting and sculpture alongside his career as a company employee. In 1997, he visited Yasuhito Abe in Ushimado, Setouchi City, Okayama Prefecture, to seek his mentorship. In 1998, he built his own kiln in Ushimado, Setouchi City, Okayama Prefecture, where he has since been creating Bizen ware by applying the experience he gained from his studies in sculpture and painting.