Bizen ware - Toru Ichikawa (市川透) (b. 1973) - Bottle - Stoneware - with gold decoration

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Sandra Wong
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Estimate  € 650 - € 750
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Description from the seller

A striking contemporary Bizen sake bottle (tokkuri) by Toru Ichikawa, its sculptural form sheathed in a dramatic crackled gold surface and crossed by a single bold vermilion stroke.

Ichikawa reinterprets the centuries-old Bizen tradition through a thoroughly modern, luxurious aesthetic. The faceted, irregular body is finished in a richly textured gold (kinsai) glaze with a metallic, crackled surface, crossed by a vivid red line that lends the piece energy and tension. Far more than a vessel, it is a sculptural object of commanding presence — equally at home as a sake bottle or as a work for display. It comes complete with its original signed wooden storage box (tomobako), wrapping cloth, and the artist's pamphlet.

【Artist Profile】

Toru Ichikawa (b. 1973, Tokyo) is a contemporary Japanese ceramic artist working in the Bizen tradition. After studying under the acclaimed Bizen master Ryuichi Kakurezaki, he established his own studio and became known for boldly reinventing Bizen ware with vivid colour and striking gold, silver, and red metallic finishes. His sculptural, luxurious works have been presented in solo exhibitions and art fairs in Japan and abroad, earning him a strong following among contemporary collectors.

【Condition】

In excellent condition, close to unused, with no damage. Complete with its original signed tomobako, wrapping cloth, and artist's pamphlet. Please review all images carefully, as they form part of the description.

【Shipping】

Carefully packed and shipped internationally with full tracking for safe delivery.

【※Important Information – Please Read Before Bidding※】

Customs duties, VAT, and import clearance fees are not included in the shipping cost and are the responsibility of the buyer. These charges vary depending on your country's import regulations and are beyond the seller's control. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation. All items are carefully packed and promptly shipped with tracking to ensure safe delivery. Please bid with confidence.

Seller's Story

Welcome to Zen Finds, where the timeless spirit of Japanese art meets contemporary sensibility. I specialize in authentic Japanese antiques, fine crafts, and artworks that embody the essence of balance, craftsmanship, and quiet beauty. Each item is hand-selected in Japan for its cultural depth, aesthetic harmony, and the story it carries within. My focus is not on quantity, but on meaning — sharing works that speak softly yet reveal the depth of Japanese aesthetics through simplicity and silence. I collaborate with trusted sources and collectors across Japan to curate genuine pieces that reflect the country’s artistic heritage. The name “Zen Finds” expresses the idea of discovering beauty in stillness — treasures that invite contemplation and connect people to the quiet spirit of Japan. Every item is carefully packed and shipped worldwide with respect and attention to detail, ensuring it reaches collectors in perfect condition. Each piece is a quiet reflection of Japan’s enduring beauty, waiting to find its place in your collection.

A striking contemporary Bizen sake bottle (tokkuri) by Toru Ichikawa, its sculptural form sheathed in a dramatic crackled gold surface and crossed by a single bold vermilion stroke.

Ichikawa reinterprets the centuries-old Bizen tradition through a thoroughly modern, luxurious aesthetic. The faceted, irregular body is finished in a richly textured gold (kinsai) glaze with a metallic, crackled surface, crossed by a vivid red line that lends the piece energy and tension. Far more than a vessel, it is a sculptural object of commanding presence — equally at home as a sake bottle or as a work for display. It comes complete with its original signed wooden storage box (tomobako), wrapping cloth, and the artist's pamphlet.

【Artist Profile】

Toru Ichikawa (b. 1973, Tokyo) is a contemporary Japanese ceramic artist working in the Bizen tradition. After studying under the acclaimed Bizen master Ryuichi Kakurezaki, he established his own studio and became known for boldly reinventing Bizen ware with vivid colour and striking gold, silver, and red metallic finishes. His sculptural, luxurious works have been presented in solo exhibitions and art fairs in Japan and abroad, earning him a strong following among contemporary collectors.

【Condition】

In excellent condition, close to unused, with no damage. Complete with its original signed tomobako, wrapping cloth, and artist's pamphlet. Please review all images carefully, as they form part of the description.

【Shipping】

Carefully packed and shipped internationally with full tracking for safe delivery.

【※Important Information – Please Read Before Bidding※】

Customs duties, VAT, and import clearance fees are not included in the shipping cost and are the responsibility of the buyer. These charges vary depending on your country's import regulations and are beyond the seller's control. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation. All items are carefully packed and promptly shipped with tracking to ensure safe delivery. Please bid with confidence.

Seller's Story

Welcome to Zen Finds, where the timeless spirit of Japanese art meets contemporary sensibility. I specialize in authentic Japanese antiques, fine crafts, and artworks that embody the essence of balance, craftsmanship, and quiet beauty. Each item is hand-selected in Japan for its cultural depth, aesthetic harmony, and the story it carries within. My focus is not on quantity, but on meaning — sharing works that speak softly yet reveal the depth of Japanese aesthetics through simplicity and silence. I collaborate with trusted sources and collectors across Japan to curate genuine pieces that reflect the country’s artistic heritage. The name “Zen Finds” expresses the idea of discovering beauty in stillness — treasures that invite contemplation and connect people to the quiet spirit of Japan. Every item is carefully packed and shipped worldwide with respect and attention to detail, ensuring it reaches collectors in perfect condition. Each piece is a quiet reflection of Japan’s enduring beauty, waiting to find its place in your collection.

Details

Era
1900-2000
Title additional information
with gold decoration
Country of origin
Japan
Manufacturer/brand
Bizen ware
Material
Stoneware
Designer/artist/maker
Toru Ichikawa (市川透) (b. 1973)
Condition
Excellent condition: barely used with minimal signs of wear
Height
15.5 cm
Width
9 cm
Depth
8.7 cm
Estimated period
1990-2000
Sold by
JapanVerified
375
Objects sold
100%
protop

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