A vessel that carries the raw energy of fire and earth. This Sonko (crouching jar) was created in 1985 by Takauchi Shugou, one of Japan's most internationally recognized contemporary ceramic artists. Fired in the Shigaraki tradition, the piece is covered in a natural ash glaze that formed organically during the wood-firing process — no two surfaces alike, no two moments repeated. The swelling, grounded form of the sonko style embodies stillness and weight. The thick natural ash drips and pools across the shoulder, shifting from warm amber to muted grey depending on the light. The surface texture — rough, encrusted, ancient-feeling — stands in striking contrast to the vessel's refined proportions. This is a work that commands presence in any space. Artist Profile Takauchi Shugou (b. 1937) opened his kiln, Hyakudo-gama, in Mashiko in 1968 after years of self-directed study. Selected for the Japan Traditional Crafts Exhibition in 1972, he went on to exhibit at the Victoria & Albert Museum (London, 1995), the Danish Museum of Art & Design (Copenhagen, 1997), and the Tokyo National Museum of Modern Art (2000). Four of his tea bowls were dedicated to Yakushiji Temple, Nara, in 2013. He is a full member of the Japan Kogei Association. Works by Takauchi Shugou are no longer in production. This is a finite body of work. Condition Excellent. Kiln variations inherent to the wood-firing process are present and expected — these are marks of authenticity, not flaws. No chips, cracks, or repairs. Shipping Carefully packed with professional-grade materials and shipped with full tracking from Japan. Comes with original signed wooden box (tomobako) and storage cloth (tomobukuro). ※Important Information – Please Read Before Bidding※ Customs duties, VAT, and import clearance fees are not included in the shipping cost and are the responsibility of the buyer. These charges vary depending on your country's import regulations and are beyond the seller's control. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation. All items are carefully packed and promptly shipped with tracking to ensure safe delivery. Please bid with confidence.