Bizen kyusu

This is a Bizen kyusu (teapot) by Living National Treasure Toshu Yamamoto, who was known for his unparalleled, god-like technical skill and for creating many masterpieces. It bears the triangular "Ma" seal, suggesting it dates from the middle period of Toshu Yamamoto's career. While Toshu Yamamoto is known for having worked on a wide variety of pieces, this kyusu is relatively rare among his body of work in that every part, including the lid and handle, was finished on the potter's wheel. The overall design emphasizes practicality with a subdued color scheme; the deep, dark reddish-purple hue, reminiscent of ripe grapes, gives it a sophisticated aesthetic. With Yuichi-signed box (shiho-zan style)
Diameter 6.8cm x Diameter 6.8cm x Height 5.6cm Toshu Yamamoto (1906–1994, born in Ibe, Bizen City) entered the world of pottery in 1921 and established his own kiln in 1933. He later refined his skills by studying under the Kyoto ceramicist Yaichi Kusube. After the war, he deepened his friendships with figures such as Rosanjin Kitaoji and Isamu Noguchi. Known as "Toshu of the Potter's Wheel" for his superior wheel-throwing techniques, he created delicate works and proactively worked on tea ceramics, primarily tea caddies, establishing his status as a master craftsman of tea wares. He had a particular fondness for tea caddies, of which he produced many. He was designated a Holder of Important Intangible Cultural Property (Living National Treasure) in 1987. In 1992, he held the exhibition "Journey of the Six Old Kilns: Living National Treasure Toshu Yamamoto Exhibition."
Major Awards: Okayama Prefecture Cultural Award, Miki Memorial Award, Sanyo Shimbun Award, Chugoku Cultural Award, Mainichi Art Award, Bizen City Distinguished Service Award, Medal with Purple Ribbon, Medal with Dark Blue Ribbon, Order of the Sacred Treasure, Fourth Class, Honorary Citizen of Bizen City