Bizen Shu-Ha-Ri (Tea Bowl)

This is a Bizen "Shuhari" (tea bowl) by Kenji Takenaka, who transitioned from jewelry design to pottery and studied under Living National Treasure Jun Isezaki. It is an ambitious work that boldly incorporates techniques from Oribe and Shino ware while using Bizen Samuta clay, truly befitting the name "Shuhari." The Samuta clay is used directly without elutriation or refinement, and its coarse, gritty texture perfectly matches the contemporary form. In addition to the soft white clay and vivid *hidasuki* (fire-cord) patterns, the refreshing green of the Shuhari-Oribe glaze adds a touch of elegance. The rim is well-crafted for drinking, making this a tea bowl with depth that goes beyond mere novelty. Signed wooden box (shiho-san) included
Diameter 14.3cm × Diameter 12.3cm × Height 7.3cm Kenji Takenaka was drawn to the medium of clay and transitioned from his career as a jewelry designer. After completing his studies at the Bizen Ceramic Center in 1986, he served as an instructor there for two years. He began his apprenticeship under Jun Isezaki in 1988 and became independent in 1994. In addition to traditional tea wares, sake vessels, tableware, and flower vases, he also creates innovative pieces. Through oxidation and reduction firing in an anagama kiln, he showcases diverse expressions through changes in red, white, and black coloration and the texture of the clay. He has received numerous awards, including the Okayama City Mayor's Award and the Prefectural Exhibition Award, as well as the Sanyo Shimbun Award at the Japan Traditional Crafts Branch Exhibition, and has been selected for various other exhibitions. He holds solo exhibitions in Tokyo, Okayama, Kurashiki, and elsewhere.