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 possesses a refined presence, combining the antique Bizen-style firing that is his specialty with the essence of early Karatsu ware. While the simple, unadorned form is characteristic of the Karatsu style, it is filled with Mr. Morimoto’s signature ingenuity, resulting in a highly accomplished work suitable for use as either tableware or a sake vessel. He has brilliantly recreated the clay texture of antique Bizen; the deep *shiso* (beefsteak plant) purple surface is adorned with a fine scattering of mustard-colored *goma* (ash glaze), appearing indistinguishable from authentic antique Bizen upon close inspection. The Karatsu influence also extends to the foot, where the *chirimen-jiwa* (crepe-like wrinkles) typical of Karatsu foot rims have been masterfully recreated using Bizen clay. Signed wooden box to follow (please allow some time for delivery)
17.3cm x 14.0cm x 7.9cm (height) Yoshinobu Morimoto was born in Okayama Prefecture in 1976. In 1996, he completed his studies at the Bizen Pottery Center. 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 Tanabe Museum of Art’s "Ceramics for Tea Ceremony" exhibition in 2005, 2006, and 2007. In 2008, he exhibited at the "Contemporary Sake Vessel Exhibition" at Nihombashi Mitsukoshi in Tokyo, and in 2009, he participated in the "Contemporary Tea Bowl Exhibition," also at Nihombashi Mitsukoshi. He continues to hold solo exhibitions throughout Japan, including a featured exhibition at Tenmaya in Okayama in 2010.