Item Description: This is a distinguished Bizen sake bottle (suntoku tokkuri) by renowned ceramic artist Saito Takashi, who studied under Living National Treasure Isezaki Jun. The piece exemplifies the rich, earthy aesthetics of Bizen ware, showcasing the deep reddish-brown tones and natural ash effects that are hallmarks of this ancient Japanese pottery tradition. The bottle features a beautifully proportioned spherical body with a gently tapering neck, displaying exceptional throwing marks (rokuro-me) that spiral around the vessel. The surface reveals stunning color variations from deep chocolate brown to warm terra cotta, punctuated by brilliant golden ash deposits (goma) that developed naturally during the extended wood-firing process. What distinguishes this piece is the masterful control of firing atmosphere, creating a rich, lustrous surface with subtle gradations of color. The natural ash glaze has created distinctive patterns where it landed and melted during firing, adding unique character to the work. The interior shows the characteristic rough Bizen clay texture, while the foot displays natural ash accumulation typical of wood-fired ceramics. The compact "suntoku" size (approximately six sun in traditional Japanese measurement) makes this an ideal vessel for serving sake, with its substantial weight and tactile surface enhancing the drinking experience. The work comes with its original signed wooden box (tomobako), confirming its authenticity and provenance. As a student of the esteemed Living National Treasure Isezaki Jun, Saito has inherited the highest level of Bizen pottery techniques and aesthetic sensibility. Size Height: 12 cm Width: 12 cm Depth: 12 cm Weight: 382 g Condition Excellent condition with natural firing characteristics and beautiful patina consistent with traditional Bizen ware aesthetics. Artist Profile Saito Takashi 齊藤隆 Saito Takashi (1948-) is a distinguished Bizen ware ceramicist born in Tokyo in 1948. After graduating from Chuo University in 1973, he pursued his passion for ceramics at the Ibaraki Prefectural Kasama Ceramic Training Institute from 1976 to 1978. Following his graduation, Saito apprenticed under the esteemed Living National Treasure Isezaki Jun, one of the most revered masters in Bizen pottery history. This prestigious apprenticeship allowed him to immerse himself in the ancient techniques and philosophical approach of this unglazed pottery tradition at the highest level. Throughout his career, Saito has been recognized with numerous awards including the Okayama Prefecture Art Encouragement Prize and has been selected for prestigious exhibitions such as the Asahi Ceramic Art Exhibition, Japan Traditional Crafts Exhibition, and various Ikkoku-ten exhibitions. His work continues the millennium-old Bizen tradition while bringing contemporary sensibility to this ancient craft. Based in Okayama Prefecture, the historic heartland of Bizen pottery, Saito creates works that honor the natural beauty of clay and fire, carrying forward the technical excellence and aesthetic philosophy learned from his renowned master. NOITICE: The lot will be carefully packaged and sent by Japan Post, DHL or FedEx depend on the situation. It takes about 3 weeks to receive normally. Import duties, taxes, and charges are not included in the item price or shipping cost. These charges are the buyer's responsibility. Sometimes Customes or delivery company in your country contact you for Customs clearance via phone or email. Please make sure that you could answer the phone. If you don't, the parcel will return to me and it cost more double shipping fee for reshipping. I appreciate your cooperation.