Item Description This magnificent Ko-Seto glazed bottle (Heishi) with chrysanthemum design is a distinguished work by the eighth-generation master Usuke Kato (1915-1981) of the prestigious Akisaka Kiln. The piece exhibits remarkable presence and dignified character that immediately captures the collector's attention. The vessel showcases the ancient Ko-Seto (Old Seto) glazing technique, a traditional style that has been prized in Japanese ceramics for centuries. The rich amber-toned glaze flows gracefully over the surface, creating natural variations and pooling effects characteristic of this historic technique. The chrysanthemum motif is subtly embossed into the body, demonstrating exceptional craftsmanship and attention to detail. The form is elegantly proportioned with a gently swelling body that tapers to a refined neck and mouth. The chrysanthemum pattern, a symbol of longevity and nobility in Japanese culture, adds both aesthetic beauty and cultural significance to this piece. The glaze displays beautiful color gradations, ranging from deeper amber tones to lighter honey hues, creating a warm and inviting surface that exemplifies the mastery of traditional Seto glazing techniques. This bottle comes with its original signed wooden box (tomobako) inscribed "Ko-Seto Glaze, Chrysanthemum Pattern Bottle, Made by Usuke," which authenticates the piece and adds significant collector value. An accompanying leaflet provides additional documentation of the artist's distinguished career. Master Kato Usuke was commissioned by the Cultural Properties Protection Committee of the Ministry of Education, held exhibitions in Los Angeles, and had works permanently preserved in Czechoslovakia, attesting to his international recognition and the quality of his artistry. This work represents the culmination of eight generations of ceramic excellence at Akisaka Kiln, continuing Seto's thousand-year pottery tradition. The condition is excellent, showing minimal signs of use, making this an exceptional acquisition for serious collectors of Japanese ceramics or those seeking a museum-quality decorative object with historical resonance and documented provenance. Size Height: 26.5 cm Width (Maximum Diameter): 18.5 cm Weight 2,500 g (2.5 kg) Condition Excellent condition with minimal signs of use. The piece displays no chips, cracks, or repairs. The glaze surface remains pristine with natural variations characteristic of the wood-firing process. Artist Profile Kato Usuke (1915-1981) was the eighth-generation master of Akisaka Kiln, one of Seto's most respected pottery workshops. Born into a distinguished lineage of ceramists, Kato dedicated his life to preserving and advancing the traditional techniques of Seto ware, particularly the Ko-Seto glazing method. Seto, located in Aichi Prefecture, has been one of Japan's Six Ancient Kilns and the most important ceramic production center for over a millennium. The Ko-Seto (Old Seto) glazing technique that Kato mastered originated during the Kamakura period (1185-1333) and reached its peak during the Momoyama period (1568-1600), when it was highly prized for tea ceremony wares. Kato's exceptional skill and dedication to his craft earned him significant recognition both nationally and internationally. He was commissioned by the Cultural Properties Protection Committee of the Ministry of Education (Bunbu-sho Bunka-zai Hogo Iinkai) to create works, a prestigious honor that recognized his importance in preserving Japan's ceramic heritage. His works were exhibited in Los Angeles, bringing traditional Japanese ceramics to American audiences, and pieces were permanently preserved in collections in Czechoslovakia, demonstrating his international reputation. The Ko-Seto technique that Kato perfected requires profound understanding of clay composition, natural ash glazes, and wood-firing kiln management—knowledge accumulated over eight generations of the Akisaka Kiln lineage. His works embody the warm, translucent quality of traditional Ko-Seto glazes, achieved through careful control of iron-rich clay reactions during firing. As the eighth-generation master, Kato Usuke served as a crucial link in preserving centuries-old techniques while creating works that speak to both traditional aesthetics and timeless artistic values. His legacy continues to influence contemporary Seto pottery. NOITICE: The photos may show flowers, plants, pedestals, etc. as examples of decorations and interior design for illustrative purposes, but please note that these are not included in the product. The lot will be carefully packaged and sent by DHL , FedEx or Japan Post depend on the situation. It takes about 3 weeks to receive normally. 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