Bizen Tokkuri

This Bizen sake bottle is from the "Satoru" period of the late Masamune Toko, an artist who captivated many by recreating the aesthetic of ancient Bizen pottery with a modern touch. True to the style of Masamune-sensei—a master deeply versed in ancient Bizen and possessed of an innate talent for wheel-throwing—this bottle is characterized by a robust and commanding presence. The rich, viscous *hidasuki* (fire-cord) markings in the ancient Bizen style are fired to perfection, reminiscent of the *hidasuki* work of the late Toyo Kaneshige, whom Masamune-sensei deeply admired. The deep *hidasuki* appears to bleed into the faintly bluish, azuki-bean-colored clay, a testament to Masamune-sensei’s immense skill, the quality of the clay, and his masterful firing technique during that period. (Please note that while there is almost no evidence of use or staining, this is a vintage work.) Original signed wooden box (two-way cross-bracing)
Rim 3.6cm × Body Diameter 10.2cm × Body Diameter 10.0cm × Height 13.5cm Capacity approx. 500cc Masamune Toko (Satoru) pursued a career in ceramics at the suggestion of his grandfather, who worked at a kiln. After graduating from high school, he entered the Bizen Ceramic Center to hone his skills. In 1977, he built his own kiln in Inbe, Bizen City, and became an independent artist. He focused on producing flower vases, flat-sided jars, and sake bottles, primarily using the potter's wheel and specializing in an ancient Bizen style. He became a full member of the Japan Kōgei Association in 1983. He was awarded the Grand Prize at the Yakishime Ceramics Competition in 1997 and the Excellence Award at the Chanoyu Modeling Exhibition in 2000. He held numerous solo exhibitions in Tokyo, Yokohama, and elsewhere. In 2005, he changed his name to Masamune Toko. He passed away in November 2006 at the young age of 53.