Bizen sake bottle

A Bizen sake bottle by the legendary master Ken Fujiwara, an artist whose work remains timeless for its unique blend of boldness and precision. True to his reputation for masterful *hi-dasuki* (fire-cord) markings, this piece features a stunning, atmospheric design with a rich color and texture. The *hi-dasuki* wraps around the neck like a scarf and continues vertically down the body; its thick, expansive application has a lustrous, viscous quality that offers endless depth and fascination. The soft, adzuki-bean-colored clay body is remarkably elegant, perfectly balancing the tactile sensation of fine, scattered sand grains with the smooth, refined texture of the clay itself. The form is simple and unassuming, yet incorporates the delicate, dynamic rim details and subtle waist indentation inherited from his mentor, Toyo Kaneshige, ensuring ease of use. This masterpiece captures the true essence of a craftsman celebrated as a definitive figure in the Bizen tradition. Please note that the spot appearing like a *tobigoma* (fly-fleck sesame ash) in the center of the front view photograph is not an actual glaze fleck, but an effect of the lighting. (*Please understand that although there are almost no signs of use, this is a previously owned work.) Original signed wooden box (two-way braced)
Rim 3.2cm × Body diameter 8.4cm × Body diameter 8.3cm × Height 12.3cm, Capacity approx. 310cc 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 from Rosanjin Kitaoji in Kamakura, before becoming independent and building his own kiln in 1956. Thereafter, he was consecutively selected for numerous exhibitions. In 1970, he devised and built a large Bizen kiln using modern firebricks. He was designated a Prefectural Important Intangible Cultural Property holder in 1973 and was also awarded the Order of the Sacred Treasure, Fifth Class. Though he was looked upon as a leader destined to carry the future of Bizen pottery, he passed away at the young age of 53.