Hikidashi-guro sake bottle

This is a brand new *hikidashi-guro* (pulled-black) sake bottle just removed from the kiln by Masao Akitani, an artist who studied under Living National Treasure Jun Isezaki and creates pieces brimming with unique originality amidst a fresh spirit. These are the first new works from Masao Akitani in approximately two years since his last firing. The mystical appearance, which captures exactly what happens inside a kiln at ultra-high temperatures that no human could ever enter, is the charm of this piece, utilizing the *hikidashi-guro* technique that can be called the trademark of the Isezaki school. The *hikidashi-yohen* (pulled-kiln transformation), which slides across the surface of the vessel like rain, is a blend of the black of the applied clay and an abundance of *goma* (ash glaze), complexly separating and changing into black, gold, and indigo; the dizzyingly changing scenery is one you will never tire of gazing at. In particular, the huge *tamadare* (drop-like glaze formations) that bulge like buttons on the rim and body have an overwhelming presence due to their amber-like beauty and substantial size, making them unforgettable once seen. Signed wooden box to follow at a later date (please allow some time for shipping)
Rim (incl. *tamadare*) 5.5cm x Body diameter (incl. *tamadare*) 10.3cm x Body diameter 9.9cm x Height 15.0cm, Capacity approx. 350cc Masao Akitani was born in Saitama in 1968. He studied under Living National Treasure Jun Isezaki starting in 1998, and after a 10-year apprenticeship, he built his own kiln in Bizen and became independent in 2008. He held his first kiln opening in 2009. His work has been selected for the Tanabe Museum of Art’s "Tea Ceremony Molding Exhibition" and the Japan Kōgei Association Chugoku Branch Exhibition, and he has received awards including the Okayama Prefectural Art Exhibition Prize and the Encouragement Prize.