A vessel of raw power and ancient presence, where clay becomes myth and fire gives breath to the supernatural. Description: This katakuchi (spouted pouring vessel) takes the form of a fierce oni demon head, rendered with striking sculptural intensity. The vessel's body is shaped as the demon's face, featuring deeply carved features: bulging eyes with metallic gold-rimmed pupils, a broad furrowed brow, prominent cheekbones, and a mouth baring teeth with distinctive fangs. The open top of the vessel forms the demon's gaping maw, while the pouring spout emerges dramatically as the oni's single horn rising from the forehead. The surface displays a complex interplay of glazes and textures. The horn exhibits a warm golden-bronze metallic finish with deliberate crackled patterning, contrasting against the face which carries layers of iridescent blue-grey, silver, and earth tones. The glaze creates an almost metallic, lustrous quality with subtle rainbow iridescence visible in the shifting light. Textured striations sweep across the back of the vessel like flowing hair or flames, adding dynamic movement to the sculptural form. The interior shows a pale glaze, functional for holding liquid. The work comes complete with a signed tomobako (wooden storage box) bearing the artist's inscription and seal, accompanied by an orange cloth wrapper. Cultural & Art Context: The oni is one of the most recognizable figures in Japanese folklore—a supernatural demon or ogre associated with both malevolence and protection. In Japanese ceramic tradition, artists have long drawn upon mythological imagery to create works that transcend mere function, imbuing everyday objects with spiritual significance. Contemporary studio potters continue this tradition, reinterpreting classical motifs through personal artistic vision. The katakuchi form itself has deep roots in Japanese drinking culture, traditionally used to pour sake. Collector Appeal: Works by Ryoma Hiramatsu that combine his signature sculptural intensity with functional vessel forms are sought after by collectors interested in the expressive, boundary-pushing edge of contemporary Japanese ceramics. Pieces featuring his oni motif demonstrate the artist's distinctive fusion of folklore, technical mastery, and dramatic visual impact. Dimensions: Height: 14.5 cm Width: 11.4 cm Depth: 18.5 cm Weight: 474g Condition: No chips, cracks or restorations. Artist Profile: Ryoma Hiramatsu is a contemporary Japanese ceramic artist based in Chiba Prefecture. He first encountered ceramics during his university studies, which sparked his path as a studio potter. From the early stages of his career, Hiramatsu has pursued a vision of creating works that transcend conventional boundaries. His creative inspiration draws from fossils, minerals, dragons, and oni demons, resulting in a diverse body of work characterized by bold sculptural forms and complex surface treatments. Hiramatsu has held multiple solo exhibitions at prestigious venues including松森美術 (Matsumori Fine Art) in Kyobashi, Tokyo, and ギャラリー器館 (Gallery Utsuwakan) in Kyoto. His work encompasses various series including "Kiretsumon" (crack pattern), "Ryuretsumon" (dragon crack pattern), "Yosai" (mysterious coloring), and works featuring ammonite and mineral-inspired glazes. His pieces are handled by established galleries specializing in contemporary Japanese ceramics. Additional Notes Please review all photos carefully as they are part of the item description. Shipping Information All items are shipped from Japan via DHL or Japan Post, depending on the destination. Each piece is packed with great care using professional materials suitable for fine art shipping. A tracking number will be provided once the shipment has been dispatched. We cannot under-declare item values or mark shipments as gifts. Import Duties & Taxes Import duties, VAT, and any additional customs or processing fees are not included in the auction price. These charges are the responsibility of the buyer. Please check with your local customs office for details before bidding. Customs Communication Customs or the shipping carrier may contact you for additional information (such as ID verification or payment of duties). Please respond promptly to avoid delays or returns. Thank you very much for your understanding and cooperation.