Bizen Hohin

This is a Bizen houhin (teapot) by the Intangible Cultural Property holder Yuichi Yamamoto, son of the master craftsman and god-like artisan Toshu Yamamoto. This is a recent work, and it is believed to have been created around 2010, based on the biographical pamphlet enclosed with the piece. The precise and elegant wheel-throwing technique characteristic of the Yamamoto family is a perfect match for crafting houhin, and the fluid form created by his masterful throwing is a pleasure to behold. When the lid is aligned with the kiln-altered markings, it fits with a precision that seems machine-measured, yet it is astonishing to realize that the wheel-throwing process was done with such speed that almost no wheel marks remain. The surface, subtly accented with gold, is beautiful, resulting in a piece of high perfection. (Unused item) Signed wooden box (shiho-san style)
Diameter including spout 9.5cm × diameter 8.2cm × height including lid 7.9cm Yuichi Yamamoto is the eldest son of Living National Treasure Toshu Yamamoto and began his path in ceramics under his father in 1959. In 1968, he introduced the first gas kiln for Bizen ware. With an inquisitive mind and a love for science, he researched ways to turn Hidasuki (fire-cord) patterns—which often rely on chance—into intentional designs. He devised the techniques of "Himon" and "Hisai," which are artificial Hidasuki methods using an extract boiled down from rice straw as a pigment to paint flowers and patterns onto the clay. He produces a wide range of works, including vases, tea utensils, jars, and large bowls. He became a full member of the Japan Kōgei Association in 1967. In 1995, he published "Bizen-yaki no Giho: Dento to Sozo" (Techniques of Bizen Ware: Tradition and Creation), an introductory book for ceramic artists. In 1996, he received the Grand Prize at the Tea Ceremony Arts Exhibition at the Tanabe Art Museum. In the same year, he was designated as a holder of the Okayama Prefecture Important Intangible Cultural Property.
Awards: Numerous awards including the Kaneshige Toyo Award, Okayama Prefecture Cultural Encouragement Award, Sanyo Shimbun Award, Medal with Dark Blue Ribbon, Okayama Nichinichi Shimbun Art and Culture Merit Award, and the Tea Ceremony Arts Exhibition Grand Prize. Served as a juror for prefectural exhibitions.
Affiliations: Japan Kōgei Association, Bizen-yaki Toshin-kai, Bigei-kai, Genga-kai, Kunpu-kai