Bizen Ware Tokkuri Crane-neck sake bottle 備前焼 鶴首徳利（びぜんやき つるくびとっくり） – Matsusaburo Katsura 桂又三郎（かつら まつさぶろう） With shikibako (signed and sealed authentication box) 識箱付（しきばこつき） A refined and elegant Bizen ware Tokkuri with a slender crane-neck form, fired at high temperature without glaze — a hallmark of the traditional Bizen technique. The piece exudes a calm dignity, embodying both strength and grace. This Tokkuri was officially authenticated by the renowned Bizen scholar Katsura Matasaburō (1901–1986) during the Shōwa period. It is accompanied by a signed and sealed *shikibako* (wooden authentication box), which serves as a reliable certificate of authenticity and provenance. The surface displays natural hi-iro (scarlet) coloration, koge (dark firing marks), and ishihaze (burst mineral spots) created by the intense heat of the kiln. These subtle variations reflect the living dialogue between fire and clay that defines Bizen ware. The long, graceful neck resembling a crane’s form contrasts beautifully with the full-bodied lower section, achieving a perfect balance of elegance and vitality. Natural kiln marks and small firing spots on the base and rim due to the nature of Bizen ware, but no chips or repairs. --- Artist Profile Katsura Matasaburō (1901–1986) • Distinguished Japanese art scholar and leading authority on Bizen ware • Published numerous academic works on Japanese ceramics • His signed *shikibako* inscriptions are highly valued as proof of authenticity and provenance --- Accessories Signed and sealed *shikibako* (wooden authentication box) by Katsura Matasaburō --- Dimensions & Weight Height: 20 cm Mouth diameter: 5.1 cm Body diameter: 11 cm Base diameter: 6.1 cm Weight: 588.5 g (approx. 900 g including box) --- Technique & Condition Unglazed high-fired Bizen ware Tokkuri. Natural kiln marks and ishihaze on surface. No chips, cracks, or repairs. --- Shipping Japan Post EMS (trackable and insured) Import duties, VAT, and customs handling fees are the sole responsibility of the buyer. For Italian buyers: Please provide your Codice Fiscale (tax code) at the time of purchase, as it is required for customs clearance in Italy.