Bizen sake bottle

A timeless masterpiece by the renowned artisan Ken Fujiwara, who possessed both boldness and meticulous precision, this is a Bizen sake flask. The chocolate-colored earth, which reveals at a glance that it was crafted from superior clay, looks as though it is wet even when dry. The finely scattered yellow sesame glaze has a matte texture, possessing a calm depth that does not feel forced. The balance between the slightly thick neck and the understated body is exceptional; it is a sake flask that is quintessentially Fujiwara in its simplicity, in the best possible sense. Box identified by Chieko (Shiho-san)
Mouth diameter 3.3cm × Body diameter 9.0cm × Body diameter 8.9cm × Height 12.8cm Capacity approx. 390cc Ken Fujiwara (1924–1977) began his career in ceramics in 1946 under his uncle, Kei Fujiwara, and also studied under Toyo Kaneshige and Sozan Kaneshige. Later, he learned tableware production techniques under Rosanjin Kitaoji in Kamakura, before establishing his own kiln in 1956. Subsequently, his works were selected for numerous exhibitions. In 1970, he devised and built a large Bizen kiln using modern firebricks. He was designated as a Prefectural Important Intangible Cultural Property holder in 1973 and was also awarded the Order of the Sacred Treasure, Fifth Class. Although he was expected to lead the next generation of Bizen artists, he passed away at the young age of 53.