Bizen Yohen Sake Bottle

This is a newly fired Bizen yohen sake bottle by Yoshiteru Koriki, a popular young ceramic artist and former apprentice to the late master Sozan Kaneshige. This latest piece was taken from the kiln in January 2017, and its striking yohen (kiln-transmutation) effects, born from a daring, high-risk firing process, are truly eye-catching. By entrusting himself entirely to the Bizen clay that he has meticulously refined and cultivated, and by firing it beyond conventional limits, he creates intense kiln effects that challenge the common wisdom of Bizen ware. Featuring a base of pale blue-gray clay from strong reduction, the piece is highlighted with gold-colored tones in the shaded areas, while the reverse side showcases a dramatic flow of melted sesame glaze and ash deposits. The intense landscape on the back, pushed to the limits of Bizen technique, is particularly masterful; the fusion of sesame glaze, ash-covered textures, and various kiln elements creates a metallic yohen effect that resembles molten lead poured over a glowing, fired surface. This is a brilliant piece that exemplifies Koriki-sensei’s signature style—a daring approach to firing that nonetheless maintains a deep focus on the inherent beauty of the clay. Signed wooden box to be provided at a later date (please allow some time for shipping).
Rim 3.3cm x Body 8.7cm x Body 8.6cm x Height 12.9cm; Capacity approx. 330cc Yoshiteru Koriki was born in Ako City, Hyogo Prefecture. Influenced by his father’s love of pottery, he pursued a career in ceramics. After graduating from high school in 1989, he studied under master potters Sozan and Yuho Kaneshige. Following seven years of training, he established his own climbing kiln in Shizutani, Bizen City, in 1996 and successfully conducted his first firing the following year. He held his first solo exhibition in Tokyo in 2000 and has held annual solo exhibitions ever since. In 1999, his work was selected for the "Kita no Kashiki" (Northern Confectionery Vessels) exhibition, and in 2002, he was selected for the "Chanoyu no Zokei" (Forms of Tea Ceremony) exhibition for the first time.