Hikidashi Tokkuri

This is a new *hikidashi* (drawn) sake flask by Masao Akiya, a potter who studied under Living National Treasure Jun Isezaki and creates works brimming with unique originality within a modern aesthetic. For this piece, in addition to his signature *hikidashi-guro* (drawn black) technique, he has applied a white glaze, which serves as a stunning, innovative accent against the delicate landscape of the black finish. The rim and waist feature the vivid cobalt blue kiln transmutations that are the hallmark of his *hikidashi-guro*; the fantastical gradient shifting from green to cobalt blue is so captivating that one could gaze at it forever. The white glaze applied via pouring is dynamic, appearing translucent in thinner areas where it reveals the cobalt blue beneath, while being further enhanced by a scattering of yellow *goma* (sesame seed ash glaze)—creating an incredibly luxurious landscape. While the sake flask features a novel aesthetic, its form remains refined and straightforward, and it has been thrown to a light weight, making it highly practical for use. Signed wooden box (shiho-san style)
Rim 3.5cm × Body diameter 9.0cm × Body diameter 9.0cm × Height 13.3cm; Capacity approx. 380cc Masao Akiya was born in Saitama in 1968. He began his apprenticeship under Living National Treasure Jun Isezaki in 1998, and after ten years of training, he established his own kiln in Bizen and became independent in 2008. He held his first kiln opening in 2009. His works have been selected for the Tanabe Museum of Art’s "Tea Ceremony Art Exhibition" and the Japan Kōgei Association’s Chugoku Branch Exhibition, and he has received awards including the Okayama Prefectural Art Exhibition Prize and the Encouragement Award.