Bizen incense burner

This is an earlier work of Bizen incense burner by Yuichi Yamamoto, a holder of Intangible Cultural Property, whose father was the master craftsman Toshu Yamamoto, known for his god-like skills. It includes a pottery resume from around 2002, suggesting it was likely created around that time. Through precise and unparalleled wheel-throwing, it is finished in the symmetrical, refined form characteristic of the Yamamoto family. The openwork on the lid is modeled after chrysanthemum petals, showcasing magnificent ceramic technique in which large and small petals are arranged alternately. Great effort was also put into the firing; it features a melt-in-the-mouth orange to shiso-leaf-colored earth texture, likely achieved by slowly firing high-quality clay, combined with a sophisticated matte "kase-goma" ash glaze. (Please note that while there is no dirt or sign of use, this is an earlier work.) Signed wooden box (shiho-san style)
Diameter 10.2cm × Diameter 10.2cm × Height 10.3cm Yuichi Yamamoto was the eldest son of Living National Treasure Toshu Yamamoto and entered the path of pottery under his father in 1959. In 1968, he introduced the first gas kiln for Bizen ware. With a scientific and inquisitive mind, he researched ways to intentionally create the "hidasuki" (fire-cord) effect, which often relies on chance, as a deliberate design. He devised the "Himon" and "Hisai" techniques, artificial hidasuki methods where he used extract boiled down from rice straw like paint to draw flowers and patterns on the body. He produced a wide range of works including vases, tea utensils, jars, and large bowls. In 1967, he became a regular member of the Japan Kōgei Association. In 1995, he published an introductory book for creators, "Techniques of Bizen Ware: Tradition and Creation." In 1996, he received the Tanabe Museum of Art Grand Prize at the Tea Ceremony Modeling Exhibition. That same year, he was certified as an Okayama Prefecture Important Intangible Cultural Property holder.
Awards: Numerous awards including the Kaneshige Toyo Prize, Okayama Prefecture Cultural Encouragement Award, Sanyo Shimbun Award, Medal with Blue Ribbon, Okayama Nichinichi Shimbun Art and Culture Merit Award, and the Tea Ceremony Modeling Exhibition Grand Prize / Prefectural Exhibition Judge
Affiliations: Japan Kōgei Association, Bizen-yaki Toshinkai, Bigeikai, Gengakai, Kunpukai