Bizen Tokkuri

This is a new Bizen tokkuri sake flask by Masao Akiya, an artist who trained under Living National Treasure Jun Isezaki and creates works overflowing with unique originality amidst a new spirit. Crafted using the *shinogi* (fluted) technique inherited from his mentor Jun Isezaki, its form is wonderful in its pursuit of three-dimensional intrigue and visual impact. The *herame* (spatula marks), applied with uniform spacing and depth, overlap like the folds of a folding fan; beyond the three-dimensional interest, the act of carving with the spatula allows one to directly enjoy the rustic texture of the clay itself. After being wrapped diagonally with straw, the piece was laid on its side for firing, allowing for a generous display of yellow *goma* (ash glaze) on the back, and vibrant *hidasuki* (fire cord) markings where the straw prevented the ash from settling on the underside. Although it has a substantial weight due to being thrown thickly on the wheel before being carved, the shoulder is shaped to ensure no sake remains inside. Signed wooden box (double-sided crosspiece)
Rim 4.0cm x Body Diameter 10.3cm x Body Diameter 8.5cm x Height 12.5cm Capacity approx. 250cc Masao Akiya was born in Saitama in 1968. He apprenticed under Living National Treasure Jun Isezaki starting in 1998, and after ten years of training, he built his own kiln in Bizen and became independent in 2008. His first kiln firing took place in 2009. He has been selected for the Tanabe Art Museum’s Tea Ceremony Form Exhibition and the Japan Kōgei Association Chugoku Branch Exhibition, and has received awards including the Okayama Prefectural Art Exhibition Prize and the Encouragement Prize.