This kensui, a waste water receptacle used in the Japanese tea ceremony, presents a slightly waisted cylindrical form covered in a matte black glaze. Across the surface, brownish glaze flows in irregular streaks, creating dynamic variations over the dark ground. The piece was crafted by Mukunoki Eizo at his Koryo kiln (紅蓼窯). The flat base is left unglazed, revealing the dark clay body and bearing the artist’s incised mark “Ei” (英). The kensui is accompanied by its tomobako (original wooden storage box), inscribed with the title Kokusai Kensui (Black Glazed Waste Water Receptacle) and signed and sealed by the artist as “Koryo kiln Eizo” (紅蓼窯 英三). About Kensui: A Kensui is a vessel used in the Japanese tea ceremony to discard waste water during the preparation of tea. It is placed near the tea utensils and plays a functional role in maintaining cleanliness throughout the procedure. Kensui can be made from various materials, including ceramic, metal, or lacquer. Ceramic examples often reflect the style of their kiln tradition and may feature simple glazes or natural firing effects. Although primarily functional, kensui are appreciated for their balanced form and subtle craftsmanship within the tea ceremony setting. Artist Profile: Born in Masuda City, Shimane Prefecture. After graduating from a ceramics vocational school in Izumo in 1958, he moved to Kyoto and studied as a live-in apprentice under the renowned Mingei potter Kawai Kanjiro for ten years. Following Kawai Kanjiro's passing, he continued his training under Kawai Takeichi and Kawai Hirotsugu. In 1974, he established his own kiln in Toyooka City, Hyogo Prefecture, which was later named Koryo kiln (紅蓼窯). Recognized as the last direct apprentice of Kawai Kanjiro, he has exhibited his works at various prestigious exhibitions, including the Japan Ceramic Art Exhibition, the Kokuten (National Art Exhibition), and the Japan Traditional Art Crafts Exhibition. 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. Please inspect the item upon arrival and contact us via Catawiki immediately if there is any issue. About the vintage ceramics we offer (please read before purchasing): We mainly offer 20th-century vintage Japanese ceramics. Due to their age and hand-crafted nature, each piece may show natural characteristics and variations such as glaze crackle (crazing), glaze irregularities, kiln marks, surface wear, and age-related patina. For this reason, we recommend these items primarily for display and collection. If you choose to use the item, please avoid sudden temperature changes and prolonged soaking, and do not use a dishwasher or microwave. Optional sealing/seasoning may be considered depending on your intended use. Guarantee: Our shop is a licensed antiques dealer in Japan. We guarantee the authenticity of this work.