Bizen sake bottle

This is a Bizen sake flask by the timeless master Ken Fujiwara, a man who possessed both bold and meticulous sensibilities. While *yohen* (kiln transmutation) is considered the most flamboyant of all Bizen scenery, Master Ken has rendered it with his signature calm and gentle aesthetic. The *nuke* (unfired/uncovered area) on the front features a subtle orange hue, allowing one to enjoy the shifting colors as the piece is used. The asymmetrical, undulating shape of the rim is reminiscent of his mentor, Toyo Kaneshige, and is exquisitely beautiful when the droplets from pouring are allowed to soak into the dark, ash-covered *yohen*. Original signed wooden box (two-way braced)
Rim 3.1cm x Body diameter 8.6cm x Body diameter 8.6cm x Height 10.1cm Capacity approx. 200cc Ken Fujiwara (1924–1977) began his pottery career in 1946 under his uncle, Kei Fujiwara, and also studied under Toyo Kaneshige and Sozan Kaneshige. He later learned tableware production techniques under Rosanjin Kitaoji in Kamakura, before becoming independent and building his own kiln in 1956. Thereafter, he was selected for various exhibitions in succession. In 1970, he devised and built a large Bizen kiln using modern firebricks. In 1973, he was designated a holder of a Prefectural Important Intangible Cultural Property. He was also awarded the Order of the Sacred Treasure, Gold Rays with Rosette. Though he was expected to be a leader who would carry the next generation of Bizen pottery, he passed away at the young age of 53.