Offered here is a refined 4-piece set of Japanese pottery by Toshihiko Izutsu (井筒敏彦), a skilled ceramic artist known for his mastery of the Tenmoku (天目) glaze technique. This set includes: One Tokkuri (sake bottle) One Katakuchi (spouted sake server) Two Guinomi (sake cups) The tokkuri, with its narrow neck and rounded body, is ideal for pouring warm sake while retaining its temperature. The katakuchi, featuring a wide spout, allows for smooth and precise pouring, and is often used for decanting or cooling sake. The guinomi, small and tactile, are designed for enjoying the aroma and flavor of the sake, with each cup offering a unique sensory experience through its glaze and form. Each piece showcases the profound depth, iridescence, and flowing textures characteristic of the Tenmoku glaze, with dramatic contrasts between dark, glossy surfaces and vibrant underlayers. These works are not only functional vessels for serving sake but also refined pieces of ceramic art, reflecting the harmony of tradition and individual expression. About Tokkuri (Sake Bottle) This tokkuri features a rounded form with a striking Tenmoku glaze in dark chocolate brown with golden streaks. The subtle variations in texture and sheen add to its refined aesthetic. Size: W8.5 × D8.5 × H12.0cm Weight : 232g About Katakuchi (Spouted Sake Server) A dynamic katakuchi with a wide spout and full-bodied form. The Tenmoku glaze displays dark tones with bluish and silvery highlights, creating a bold yet balanced visual effect. Size: W15.0 × D9.5 × H9.5cm Weight : 330g About Guinomi 1 (Red Interior) This guinomi showcases a vivid red interior beneath a glossy black surface, creating a dramatic contrast. The textured outer surface reflects the Tenmoku glaze’s depth and traditional elegance. Size: W7.5 × D7.5 × H4.5cm Weight : 70g About Guinomi 2 (White Rim) Featuring a softer, more subdued finish, this guinomi has a creamy white rim with textured Tenmoku glaze cascading down the sides. A subtle and contemplative piece. Size: W7.5 × D7.5 × H5.0cm Weight : 70g About Tenmoku (天目) The term Tenmoku refers to a traditional ceramic glazing technique originally developed in China, specifically at the Jian Kiln in southern China during the 12th and 13th centuries. The technique gained prominence for its unique glaze effects that often feature sparkling droplets or patterns resembling the cosmos, commonly known as oil-spot or "Yuteki Tenmoku." These patterns result from natural chemical reactions in the kiln during firing, giving each piece a distinctive and irreplaceable appearance. The glaze typically has a lustrous black or dark brown color with metallic, iridescent spots that resemble tiny oil droplets or starry skies. The technique involves applying an iron-rich glaze that, depending on the firing conditions, creates a range of surface effects, often with shimmering metallic highlights or crystalline patterns. Because of its difficulty and the unpredictable nature of firing results, each Tenmoku piece is considered unique and is highly valued for capturing the spirit of nature and the aesthetics of wabi-sabi (the beauty of imperfection and transience). About Toshihiko Izutsu (井筒敏彦) Toshihiko Izutsu is a Japanese ceramic artist born in 1963 in Kyoto. He graduated from the ceramics course at Kyoto Municipal Todaya Art and Craft High School in 1981, where his graduation work won the Kyoto City Board of Education Superintendent Award. He then completed the forming course at Kyoto Prefectural Ceramic Technology Training School in 1982. Izutsu honed his craft through apprenticeship in Kameoka, Kyoto Prefecture, and founded his own kiln named Tsukiyomi-gama in Kameoka in 1992, later relocating it to Uzumasa, Kyoto in 1999. Izutsu is especially known for his distinctive work with Tenmoku glaze ceramics, a style often associated with cosmic or universe motifs. He has developed his own unique approach through experimenting with glaze formulas and incorporating motifs such as dragons and cranes, aiming to express a cosmic or "still unseen universe" theme. His solo exhibitions have focused on tea bowls, flower vases, and tableware, showcasing his Tenmoku ceramics. Izutsu has received multiple awards in public exhibitions and maintains an active exhibition presence mainly around Kyoto, highlighting his reputation and artistic contributions. Shipping / Policy Carefully packaged and shipped from Japan by Japan Post or DHL with tracking. If you purchase multiple items, combined shipping is available. Please contact us if needed. Import duties, VAT (or equivalent consumption tax), and any other fees are the responsibility of the buyer. Guarantee Our shop is a licensed antiques dealer in Japan. We guarantee the authenticity of this work.