Bizen sake bottle

This is a Bizen sake bottle by Living National Treasure Toshu Yamamoto, an artisan whose peerless, "god-like" craftsmanship led to the creation of many masterpieces. This piece bears the "Ma" potter's mark used by Toshu in his later years, showcasing the mature, refined technique of a master of the wheel. The combination of a perfectly symmetrical, undistorted, voluminous body with a compact mouth reflects his signature style, making the piece instantly recognizable as his work even without elaborate ornamentation. The firing is equally characteristic of Toshu, featuring a misty dusting of black *goma* (ash glaze) on the shoulders, topped with yellow *goma*—a landscape that identifies it at a glance as Yamamoto Bizen. The earth-toned body, enriched by golden hues, is so beautiful that one longs to cradle it while sipping sake. Original signed wooden box (shiho-zan style)
Rim 3.2cm × Body diameter 8.9cm × Body diameter 8.8cm × Height 13.1cm, Capacity approx. 430cc Toshu Yamamoto (1906–1994, born in Ibe, Bizen City) entered the world of pottery in 1921 and established his own kiln in 1933. He later refined his skills under the tutelage of Kyoto ceramic artist Yaichi Kusube. After the war, he deepened his friendships with figures such as Rosanjin Kitaoji and Isamu Noguchi. Known as "Toshu of the Wheel" for his superior throwing technique, he created delicate works and worked ambitiously on tea ceramics, primarily *cha-ire* (tea caddies), establishing his status as a master of tea ware. He had a particular fondness for *cha-ire* and produced many. He was designated a Holder of Important Intangible Cultural Property (Living National Treasure) in 1987. In 1992, he held the exhibition "Travels Through the Six Old Kilns: Living National Treasure Toshu Yamamoto."
Major Awards and Honors: Okayama Prefectural Cultural Award, Miki Memorial Award, Sanyo Shimbun Award, Chugoku Cultural Award, Mainichi Art Award, Bizen City Distinguished Service Award, Medal with Purple Ribbon, Medal with Dark Blue Ribbon, Order of the Sacred Treasure, Gold Rays with Rosette, Honorary Citizen of Bizen City.