Bizen Kinsai Shishi Guinomi

Koji Nakahara studied under Fumio Kawabata and strives to create works that complement contemporary lifestyles. This is a newly fired Bizen Kinsai Shishi Guinomi by the artist.

Going a step beyond his earlier sake cups, in which various animals were carved into the surface, this piece transforms the vessel itself into the dynamic face of a Shishi, giving it an exceptionally powerful presence.

The intricate sculptural work reflects Nakahara’s current passion for detailed ceramic figures. The finely rendered fangs, mane, and horns are so vivid that the Shishi appears almost to have emerged from an ancient painting.

Although the vessel is relatively thickly formed, its overall weight and balance have been carefully adjusted. Despite its large and dynamic form, it never feels excessively heavy and remains fully functional as a Guinomi.

The work is finished with Kinsai decoration in an electric kiln, a technique Nakahara handles particularly well. The upper section displays a copper-like golden tone, while the lower section develops a black kiln effect similar to that seen in his Susogoi series.