Bizen tea bowl

This is a Bizen tea bowl by Living National Treasure Toshu Yamamoto, an artisan of unparalleled, god-like skill who created many masterpieces. The quality of the clay is evident in the magnificent, soft shiso-colored *tsuchi-aji* (texture of the clay), and the *nuke* (uncovered areas) exhibit a lovely, soft orange hue. The fine, highly dense *kase-goma* (stony-textured ash glaze) is also superb, and the landscape of bluish moss-green is truly a masterpiece of *kase-goma* that is as delightful to look at as it is to hold. Within the flowing form characteristic of a master potter’s wheel, the bowl retains a slight distortion suited to its purpose, enhancing its fit in the hand without compromising the beauty of its silhouette. (Please note that the item shows slight signs of use.) Original signed wooden box (with two-sided inner supports)
Diameter 12.5cm × Diameter 12.2cm × Height 8.3cm Toshu Yamamoto (1906–1994, born in Ibe, Bizen City) entered the world of pottery in 1921 and established his own kiln in 1933. He later studied under Kyoto ceramic artist Yaichi Kusube to refine his techniques. After the war, he deepened his friendships with figures such as Rosanjin Kitaoji and Isamu Noguchi. Known as "Toshu of the Potter's Wheel" for his exceptional skill on the wheel, he created delicate works and actively produced tea ceramics—particularly tea caddies—establishing his reputation as a master craftsman of tea wares. He had a particular affinity for tea caddies and produced many throughout his career. In 1987, he was designated a Living National Treasure (Preservation Holder of Important Intangible Cultural Property). In 1992, he held the exhibition "Travels of the Six Ancient Kilns: Living National Treasure Toshu Yamamoto Exhibition."
Major awards: Okayama Prefectural Cultural Award, Miki Memorial Award, Sanyo Shimbun Award, Chugoku Cultural Award, Mainichi Art Award, Bizen City Distinguished Service Award, Medal with Purple Ribbon, Medal with Dark Blue Ribbon, Order of the Sacred Treasure, Fourth Class, Honorary Citizen of Bizen City