Bizen sake bottle

This is a new Bizen sake flask by Hisanaga Koide, who has made his long-awaited debut after completing a lengthy apprenticeship under Juroku Harada. The piece was crafted without over-kneading the clay, preserving the unevenness of its composition, which allows white marble-like patterns to emerge across its nicely fired brownish surface. Perhaps due to the nature of the clay, the *hidasuki* (fire-cord) markings are exceptionally dense and lustrous, appearing with the intensity of reddish-brown oil paint. Adding to the dramatic scenery is a bold *ishihaze* (stone burst), yet the neck is constricted to a very slender form, ensuring an elegant pouring experience. The work possesses a blend of boldness and delicacy that is reminiscent of his mentor, Juroku. (The white portion of the *hidasuki* on the front in photo 1 is due to light reflection.) Signed wooden box (with four-way locking lid)
Rim 3.9cm × Body diameter 8.1cm × Body diameter 8.0cm × Height 11.6cm, Capacity approx. 180cc Hisanaga Koide was born in Amagasaki City, Hyogo Prefecture, in 1978. He became an apprentice to Juroku Harada in 1997. He became independent in 2011 and built a climbing kiln in Ushimado-cho, Setouchi City, Okayama Prefecture. He fired his first kiln in 2013.