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Bizen's first Living National Treasure Kaneshige Toyo (1896-1967) is one of the most important Bizen potters of all time. Along with other first LNT's, such as Arakawa Toyozo and Nakazato Muan, Kaneshige researched and revived the ancient Momoyama Period ways of clay preparation, kiln building, kiln loading--a key aspect--and firing. The "tsuchi-aji" clay flavor of Toyo is unsurpassed on all his works, and it is he who made both the Kaneshige name, and moreover, Bizen, an integral presence in Japanese modern and contemporary ceramics. Toyo loved sake and he made some of the finest guinomi as well, highly sought after for any serious collection. Here is a classic Toyo guinomi with a rich 'tsuchi-aji' and fine dusting of goma-sesame, notice the latter in a full 'carpet' inside, Toyo planned that by placing the guinomi in a strategic place. A small stone burst--ishihaze--is on the front and a very much desired 'landscape' and focal point. In perfect condition with a signed box, 5.9cm.tallx6.5, signed on base, dating to the early 1960s.
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