Item Description: This is an exceptional Bizen sake bottle (tokkuri) by renowned ceramic artist Saito Takashi. The piece exemplifies the quintessential characteristics of Bizen ware, one of Japan's six ancient kilns with a history spanning over a thousand years. The bottle displays a beautiful spherical form with a narrow neck, showcasing the natural effects of extended wood-firing. The surface reveals stunning variations of e:arth tones from warm orange-red (hi-iro) to pale beige, created by the natural ash and flame patterns during the firing process. The characteristic rough texture of Bizen clay is beautifully preserved, with natural striations and tool marks adding to its rustic charm. What makes this piece particularly special is the natural kiln effects (yohen) that developed during firing. The interplay of fire, ash, and clay has created unique color gradations and surface patterns that make each Bizen piece truly one-of-a-kind. The unglazed surface allows the pure beauty of the clay to shine through, embodying the wabi-sabi aesthetic that is central to Japanese tea culture. The work comes with its original signed wooden box (tomobako), informational leaflet about Bizen ware, and the artist's biography detailing his extensive exhibition history and awards. Saito studied under the renowned Bizen master Isezaki Jun, inheriting the rigorous techniques and philosophical approach of this ancient ceramic tradition. Size Height: 13.5 cm Width: 11 cm Depth: 11 cm Weight: 343 g Condition Good condition with natural patina consistent with use and age, showing characteristic Bizen firing marks and surface texture as intended by the artist. 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 Bizen master Isezaki Jun, immersing himself in the ancient techniques of this unglazed pottery tradition. 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. 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.