Bizen-ware spouted sake server

This is a newly fired Bizen *katakuchi* (spouted sake server) by the popular young artist Yoshiteru Kouriki, a former apprentice to the master Sozan Kaneshige. Fired at the end of September 2017, this latest work exhibits the consistent quality characteristic of Kouriki’s style while offering a diverse and impressive finish. The sophisticated *tsuchi-aji* (clay texture), inherited from Sozan Kaneshige, may appear understated at first glance, but its exceptional quality clearly demonstrates what sets high-grade clay apart from the rest. The texture of the clay on the side opposite the *goma* (ash glaze) is particularly magnificent; it has a bright, brownish hue tinged with faint reddish-purple, and its luster is so captivating that one might imagine it would melt to the touch. Despite the superior quality of the clay, this piece is affordably priced and comes highly recommended as a sake server for everyone. Paper box
10.1cm diameter (including spout) × 8.7cm diameter × 10.0cm height Yoshiteru Kouriki was born in Ako City, Hyogo Prefecture. Influenced by his father, who loved ceramics, he aspired to pursue a career in pottery. After graduating from high school in 1989, he apprenticed under the father-son duo of Sozan and Yuho Kaneshige to hone his craft. Following seven years of training, he established his own *noborigama* (climbing kiln) in Shizutani, Bizen City, in 1996, and successfully held 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 "Sweets Containers of the North" exhibition, and in 2002, he was selected for the "Forms of Tea Ceremony" exhibition for the first time.