Bizen Katakuchi (spouted bowl)

This is a new Bizen *katakuchi* (spouted bowl) by Yoshinobu Morimoto, an artist with an exceptional aesthetic sense who continues to evolve in his handling of clay, firing, and craftsmanship. This piece features a sophisticated, understated presence, combining the old Bizen-style firing that Morimoto specializes in with the essence of early Karatsu ware. While the wheel-throwing may appear swift and unadorned at first glance, the piece has been meticulously adjusted—true to its "katakuchi" designation—to function perfectly as both a vessel for sake and for food. For instance, when placed with the spout facing to the left, the rim is subtly angled downward toward the front, significantly enhancing its appearance as a piece of tableware. The use of a slightly coarse clay allows for the characteristic "crêpe-like" wrinkles (*chirimen-jiwa*) of Karatsu ware to blossom at the foot, while also providing the rugged durability required to withstand the rich, intensive firing of the old Bizen style. Signed wooden box to follow (please allow some time for shipping)
Diameter 16.9cm × Diameter 13.5cm × Height 7.7cm Yoshinobu Morimoto was born in Okayama Prefecture in 1976. He completed his studies at the Bizen Pottery Center in 1996. After working independently, he held his first solo exhibition in Tokyo in 2004. Since then, he has held annual solo exhibitions, primarily in Tokyo and across the country. He was selected for the Tabe Museum's "Tea Ceremony Forms Exhibition" in 2005, 2006, and 2007. In 2008, his work was exhibited at the "Contemporary Sake Vessel Exhibition" at Mitsukoshi Nihonbashi, Tokyo. In 2009, he participated in the "Contemporary Tea Bowl Exhibition" at the same venue. In 2010, he held a solo feature exhibition at Tenmaya, Okayama, among many others held throughout the country.