Bizen Suiteki

This is a Bizen water dropper by Kei Fujiwara, an artist beloved by all for his bold, candid style and the warmth that radiates from his work. Judging by the potter's mark and the box, this piece dates from his later years. It is a unique water dropper that reflects Fujiwara's free-spirited approach to Bizen ware, transcending the conventional boundaries of sake vessels, tea utensils, tableware, and flower vases. While water droppers typically feature a tiny hole the size of a toothpick tip, this piece is uniquely shaped like a miniature version of the sake flasks he frequently created. It is unusually large for a water dropper, offering a substantial capacity that makes it quite fascinating. With its "teppo-guchi" (gun-barrel) spout and a sturdy handle that is easy to grip, it offers the same usability as a sake vessel. The soft orange tone of the clay is exquisite, and the unpretentious, Nanban-style unglazed surface suits the style of the work perfectly. It is a wonderful piece that truly displays the talent of this "poet of ceramics." Original signed box (shiho-zan style)
Width including spout and handle 10.2cm × Body diameter 7.0cm × Height 9.4cm Kei Fujiwara (1899–1983, born in Bizen City, Okayama Prefecture) entered the world of Bizen pottery at the suggestion of Atsuo Masamune, a scholar of Japanese literature living in Honami, Bizen. He learned wheel-throwing techniques from Baiketsu Mimura, and from 1941, he honed his skills by learning firing methods from fellow Living National Treasure Toyo Kaneshige. Emulating the simplicity and boldness found in Kamakura and Muromachi period utilitarian wares, he created jars and vases with an expansive and clear-cut style. The artistic education he absorbed in his youth influenced his work. In 1954, he became the second person to be designated a Holder of Important Intangible Cultural Property (Living National Treasure) for Bizen ware, and in 1958, he became a director of the Japan Kōgei Association. In 1977, he established the Kei Fujiwara Memorial Museum in Bizen City, Okayama Prefecture.
Major awards: Okayama Prefecture Cultural Award, Sanyo Shimbun Award, Chugoku Cultural Award; Honorary Citizen of Bizen City, Honorary Citizen of Okayama Prefecture; posthumously awarded the Junior Fifth Rank and the Order of the Sacred Treasure, Third Class.