Exceptional Bizen Tea Bowl with Kaiyu Glaze by Sozan Kaneshige
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Directory: Artists: Ceramics: Pottery: Bowls: Pre 1990: Item # 1415976
Directory: Artists: Ceramics: Pottery: Bowls: Pre 1990: Item # 1415976
Please refer to our stock # TRC220405 when inquiring.
The distinctive and easily recognizable style of Bizen pieces, such as the one featured here, originated in Okayama (south-western Japan) and has a long history that is closely intertwined with that of tea culture. Bizen-ware is known for employing a natural-ash glazing technique that is unique to this type of pottery and which requires extremely long firing times (7-14 days) at very high temperatures. This means that constant attention is required to ensure good results. The tea bowl shown here was made by one of the most accomplished Bizen craftsmen in the last 100 years, Sozan Kaneshige.
Born in the world-renowned potting town of Bizen, Kaneshige (1909 - 1995) took up the family trade at a young age, studying mainly under his older brother who would later go on to be awarded Japan’s top honor, the title of Living National Treasure. After mastering the traditional methods that had been around in one form or another since Momoyama, Sozan moved around for a time, working first in Kameoka and later in Ayabe before returning home and establishing his own climbing kiln. Several years later, Sozan started experimenting with electric kiln technology and special techniques that were able to achieve the look and feel of even the finest known Momoyama Bizen-ware. This is the breakthrough that would finally launch Sozan to notoriety, winning him numbers honors and awards including the title of Important Intangible Cultural Property of Okayama. Today his pieces are held by private collectors and museums both in Japan and around the world.
In excellent condition this piece is 5.7 inches in diameter at its widest point (14.5 cm), and stands 3.2 inches tall (8 cm). It comes with a certification box signed by Sozan’s eldest son (and very accomplished potter in his own right), Makoto Kaneshige. *** International shipping and insurance included in the price.
Born in the world-renowned potting town of Bizen, Kaneshige (1909 - 1995) took up the family trade at a young age, studying mainly under his older brother who would later go on to be awarded Japan’s top honor, the title of Living National Treasure. After mastering the traditional methods that had been around in one form or another since Momoyama, Sozan moved around for a time, working first in Kameoka and later in Ayabe before returning home and establishing his own climbing kiln. Several years later, Sozan started experimenting with electric kiln technology and special techniques that were able to achieve the look and feel of even the finest known Momoyama Bizen-ware. This is the breakthrough that would finally launch Sozan to notoriety, winning him numbers honors and awards including the title of Important Intangible Cultural Property of Okayama. Today his pieces are held by private collectors and museums both in Japan and around the world.
In excellent condition this piece is 5.7 inches in diameter at its widest point (14.5 cm), and stands 3.2 inches tall (8 cm). It comes with a certification box signed by Sozan’s eldest son (and very accomplished potter in his own right), Makoto Kaneshige. *** International shipping and insurance included in the price.
