Bizen Guinomi

This is a Bizen Guinomi by Ken Fujiwara,
a master whose work seamlessly blends bold expressiveness with refined precision—
a timeless artist whose creations never lose their appeal.

The piece was slowly fired in the kiln while absorbing ample smoke,
resulting in a striking, almost wet-looking gloss that covers the entire surface.

In the areas where this rich sheen appears,
extremely fine goma particles have settled onto the surface,
transforming the clay into a warm brown tone with a subtle metallic character—
a fascinating and distinctive effect.

Along the rim and inside the Guinomi,
even more kigoma has accumulated compared to the exterior,
giving these areas a contrasting matte texture that highlights another side of the firing.

Although slightly larger in size,
the pronounced rokuro-me (wheel marks) around the body provide an excellent grip,
and the vessel has been finished with a well-balanced thinness,
making it comfortable and easy to use.

He was born in Bizen City, Okayama Prefecture in 1924.
He began learning the art of Bizen ware from his uncle, Kei Fujiwara, in 1946.
He constructed a large tunnel kiln (anagama) in 1970.
He passed away in 1977.