This is a Bizen-ware(*) Sake Flask. It was made to enjoy Japanese Sake in hot or cold.
Of course, you can use it in any ways with your creative idea such as a small vase.
* Bizen-ware is a stoneware, which is made of a special clay (available only in Bizen area) and baked at very high temperature (1,200~1,300 degrees Celsius). It does not use or apply any glaze before baking. The glaze naturally develops in the kiln from ash of tree and elements contained in the clay. Thus, it looks very natural and primitive. Stoneware is still produced in Japan, because it is loved by the people who practice tea ceremony.
This sake flask has very rich Keshiki (景色 in Japanese / scenery or texture in English), i.e., many different colors and patterns. When it is lighted, colors change. And when it is wet (by sake), colors change again. This nature is one of attractiveness of Bizen-ware.
Artist:
The artist is OKAYAYASU Yasuhiko (岡安 靖彦) in Bizen. According to his resume (photo #10 & 11):
- 1955: born in Bizen, Okayama Prefecture
- 1975: became a disciple of YAMAMOTO Toushuh (a very respected top-notch Bizen-ware potter)
- 1979: won the first prize at the exhibition for Traditional Japanese Artifacts in Okayama
- 1980~: won many prizes at Art / Traditional Japanese Artifacts exhibitions
Condition:
It is not used in excellent condition. The box is original and signed by the artist.
Attention:
This offering includes ONLY a sake flask, i.e., it does NOT include other objects in the photos such as sake cups or tray. The photo #3 is to show how the sake flask looks like when it is placed with sake cups and tray.
Approximate Size & Weight: Diameter: 8.7 cm / 3.1 in Height: 11.1 cm / 4.4 in Weight: 271 gr / 9.6 oz
Approximate Capacity: 320 ml (= excellent size to enjoy Sake)