Bizen Tokkuri

This Bizen sake bottle is by Living National Treasure Yu Fujiwara, who expanded his vision not only within Japan but to the world, widely conveying the charm of Bizen ware. This is a work from Fujiwara's later years, after he was certified as a Living National Treasure, and it features a moss-green "kase-goma" (dry, crusty sesame glaze) that is immediately recognizable as his signature style. The rounded body features a circular "marunuke" (mark) reminiscent of a tanuki's belly, showcasing the deep, calm scarlet hue characteristic of his "kase" works. The back also bears the expected circular mark, which features an even deeper scarlet hue, creating a striking scene that looks like the setting sun. Although the bottle is simple and straightforward in its expression, and slightly compact in size, it possesses a powerful, solid presence that reflects the guts and determination of Fujiwara as he pushed through the challenges of his failing eyesight. Signed wooden box (shiho-san) included.
Mouth rim 3.6cm × body diameter 8.3cm × body diameter 8.1cm × height 11.9cm. Capacity approx. 240cc. Yu Fujiwara (1932–2001, born in Bizen City, Okayama Prefecture) was the eldest son of Living National Treasure Kei Fujiwara. His motto for pottery was "simple, clear, and bold," and he was known as "Yu of the Vases" for his many works in vases and bowls. Influenced by Rosanjin Kitaoji, he was also skilled at tableware. Beginning in 1972, he held a series of exhibitions, including the "100 Vases Exhibition," "Tokkuri Exhibition," "100 Flowers Exhibition," and "100 Bowls Exhibition." He also created many large-scale reliefs and objects. In 1967, he received the Japan Ceramic Society Award. In 1980, he was designated a holder of a Prefectural Important Intangible Cultural Property. In 1996, he became the first person in the ceramic world to be designated a nationally recognized holder of an Important Intangible Cultural Property (Living National Treasure) as part of a father-son pair.
Major awards: Kaneshige Toyo Award, Okayama Prefecture Cultural Encouragement Award and Cultural Award, Sanyo Shimbun Award, Chugoku Cultural Award, Minister of Education Award for Fine Arts, Academia Art and Culture Award, and Medal with Dark Blue Ribbon.