{"title":"Karatsu Ware Sake Cups \u0026 Vessels","description":"\u003cp\u003eKaratsu ware, beloved of tea masters: sake cups and vessels with the honest strength of e-garatsu painting and Chosen-garatsu glazes.\u003c\/p\u003e","products":[{"product_id":"315","title":"Co-founder of the Toto-kai with Itaya Hazan, Pioneer of Natural Gas Firing, Yaguchi Kiln, Tanaka Hozan (田中穂山), Historically Significant Masterpiece of Korean Karatsu Ware, Cylindrical Tea Bowl Rock Glass #315","description":"\u003cp data-path-to-node=\"19\"\u003eIn the history of modern Japanese ceramics, this is an extremely rare work from the Yaguchi Kiln period by Tanaka Hozan, a master craftsman who was a member during the dawn of the Toto-kai, which he helped establish alongside the modern ceramics master \u003ca href=\"\/en\/search?q=%22%E6%9D%BF%E8%B0%B7%E6%B3%A2%E5%B1%B1%22\u0026amp;type=product\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"\u003eItaya Hazan\u003c\/a\u003e, and who later pioneered Japan's first firing technology utilizing natural gas fuel. Tanaka Hozan (born Tanaka Sakutaro, October 21, 1884 – June 13, 1964) was born in Gojozaka, Higashiyama, Kyoto, and received rigorous instruction in the craft of Kiyomizu ware vessels from his father, Heian Kozan, a highly renowned ceramist. In 1913, he was invited by Mitsui Gomei Kaisha to Singapore, embarking on a unique career path manufacturing ceramic collection cups for rubber trees to support local industry. Following his return to Japan in 1925, he built the Yaguchi Kiln near the Yaguchi-no-watashi ferry point in Kamata, Tokyo, immersing himself in the creation of tea utensils. In 1938, he traveled to China to study the regional clay characteristics in Shandong and Henan provinces. During the war in 1944, he dedicated his efforts to reviving the legendary Otowa ware in Takashima Town, Shiga Prefecture, along the western coast of Lake Biwa. In the postwar era of 1947, he relocated to Mobara, Chiba Prefecture, at the invitation of Hidezaburo Kurushima, president of Otaki Natural Gas Company, where he established the Chosei Kiln and founded Mobara ware fired by natural gas. His wave-tossed life journey and superb artistic achievements, continuing until his passing at the age of 79, are historically authenticated by the fact that the Tanaka Hozan Ceramic Collection is permanently preserved and exhibited at the Wayo Women's University Cultural Materials Museum.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-path-to-node=\"20\"\u003eThis work is a historically significant masterpiece of Korean Karatsu ware produced during the golden age of the Tokyo Yaguchi Kiln period, which Tanaka Hozan operated for only a fleeting window between his return to Japan in 1925 and his departure for China in 1938. The surface of the lid of the accompanying dedicated wooden box (Tomobako) bears the artist's own fluid calligraphic title inscription of \"Tsutsu Chawan\" (Cylindrical Tea Bowl) in ink, with his authentic signature \"Yaguchi Kiln, made by Hozan\" and his vermilion seal (rakkan) clearly impressed on the lower left, providing objective documentation that this is a genuine piece from the celebrated kiln built from the late Taisho period to the early Showa 1930s. The surface of the vessel, displaying a thick and powerful form characteristic of hand-thrown pottery on a wheel, features a dark brown iron glaze as its base, over which a milky-white straw ash glaze is boldly ladled, rendering a dynamic, cascading contrast. Due to the natural phenomena of the flames inside the coal-fired kilns of that era, where temperature control was exceedingly difficult, a brilliant coloration of yellowish-green and bluish hues forms a beautiful Yohen (kiln transmutation) gradation at the boundaries of the glazes, while the base unmasks a robust, reddish-brown clay body and glaze crawling. Furthermore, peering into the interior of the vessel, a glassy, lustrous bluish glaze pool (yutamari) has gathered at the bottom of the basin, offering a profound sense of depth that stands in exquisite juxtaposition to the audacious scenery of the exterior.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-path-to-node=\"21\"\u003eWe propose this historically valuable cylindrical tea bowl as a supreme Japanese Kogei sake vessel (rock glass) for appreciating aged sake, matured liquors, or your favorite whisky accompanied by large ice cubes, elegantly adapting it to a refined modern lifestyle. The precise techniques of Kiyomizu ware inherited from his father, Heian Kozan, combined with Hozan’s unique insights from studying soils around the world, culminate in a substantial form that settles comfortably within the hand, gently cradling the aromatic bouquet of the spirit. The amber liquid poured within resonates in perfect harmony with the mysterious glaze pool inside and the grand color visual on the exterior. Tanaka Hozan relocated his creative base across Tokyo, Shiga, and Chiba during different eras, making the absolute volume of extant authentic works exceptionally scarce due to the tightly restricted production timeframes in each region. It is particularly rare for a cylindrical tea bowl from the Yaguchi Kiln period, fully intact with its original Tomobako, to enter the private trade. This is a singular, irreplaceable treasure by a phantom master about whom virtually no records exist overseas, sublimating your daily evening drink into an hour of contemplating peak three-dimensional art.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli data-path-to-node=\"22\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eArtist: \u003c\/strong\u003eTanaka Hozan (田中穂山, Birth name: Tanaka Sakutaro, born October 21, 1884 – passed away June 13, 1964, aged 79)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-path-to-node=\"23\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRepresentative Career Highlights: \u003c\/strong\u003e[1884] Born in Gojozaka, Higashiyama, Kyoto; from his childhood, studied Kiyomizu ware under his father, the ceramist Heian Kozan,\u0026nbsp;[1913] Invited by Mitsui Gomei Kaisha to Singapore, [1925] Returned to Japan and opened the Yaguchi Kiln in Kamata, Tokyo, [1927] Became a member of the Toto-kai, [1938] Researched ceramics in Shandong and Henan provinces, China, [1944] Devoted efforts to revive Otowa ware in Takashima Town, Shiga Prefecture, [1947] Relocated to Mobara City, Chiba Prefecture, and established the Chosei Kiln, Japan's first kiln utilizing natural gas firing, at the invitation of Hidezaburo Kurushima, president of Otaki Natural Gas Company (founded Mobara ware)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-path-to-node=\"24\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWorks in Collection: \u003c\/strong\u003eWayo Women's University Cultural Materials Museum (permanently stored and exhibited as the Tanaka Hozan Ceramic Collection)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-path-to-node=\"25\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduction Period:\u003c\/strong\u003e 1925–1938 (Taisho 14 – Showa 13, Tokyo Yaguchi Kiln Period)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-path-to-node=\"26\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduct Condition: \u003c\/strong\u003eGood (no chips, no cracks, excluding age-related changes typical of antique art; one missing leg on the box)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-path-to-node=\"27\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAccessories: \u003c\/strong\u003eDedicated wooden box (Tomobako) with \"Tsutsu Chawan\" inscribed on the lid and \"Yaguchi Kiln, made by Hozan\" in ink with a seal (rakkan) on the lower left; one missing leg on the box\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-path-to-node=\"28\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMaterial:\u003c\/strong\u003e Pottery (Korean Karatsu style, iron glaze, straw ash glaze, kiln variations \/ Yohen)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-path-to-node=\"29\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions:\u003c\/strong\u003e Height approx. 10.5 cm, Mouth diameter approx. 9.3 cm\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-path-to-node=\"30\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNote: \u003c\/strong\u003eAll items offered by our shop, even if unused, are historical crafts from a very old production period and are listed as antique art. As items may have unique firing flaws or subtle age-related changes, please understand and acknowledge the nature of antique art before considering a purchase.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e","brand":"Antique Liquor","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":48093148643515,"sku":null,"price":100000.0,"currency_code":"JPY","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0652\/0510\/8923\/files\/IMG_9135_result.jpg?v=1784358836"},{"product_id":"449","title":"Former Official Kiln of the Karatsu Domain, Kiln for Imperial Presentations and National Important Cultural Property Restorations, Fourth-Generation Nakano Tochi (四代 中野陶痴), E-Karatsu (Picture Karatsu) Circular Motif Pair of Japanese Shot Glasses #449","description":"\u003cp data-path-to-node=\"1\"\u003eThe Nakano Kiln of Karatsu boasts history and prestige, founded during the Ansei era of the Edo period and designated as an official kiln by Lord Ogasawara, the former lord of the Karatsu Domain, from whom it was granted the \"Sangai-bishi\" (three-tiered diamond) crest as its kiln mark. Born as the eldest son of the first-generation \u003ca href=\"\/en\/search?q=%22%E4%B8%AD%E9%87%8E%E9%9C%93%E6%9E%97%22\u0026amp;type=product\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"\u003eGeirin Nakano\u003c\/a\u003e, Fourth-Generation Nakano Tochi (1916–2000s) was a master craftsman who perfected his art under his father's guidance in traditional Karatsu techniques and hand-formed clay sculpture. This pair of E-Karatsu (Picture Karatsu) teacups is his creation. Fourth-Generation Tochi is a giant of modern Karatsu ware, publicly acclaimed as a premier authority in ceramic sculpture and fine craftsmanship after completing the restoration of the Statues of the Four Sages at Taku Seibyo, a Nationally Designated Important Cultural Property, and creating numerous presentation pieces for the Imperial Household, including Emperor Showa, as well as state guests. The lid of the accompanying dedicated paulownia wooden box (tomobako) bears the handwritten calligraphy \"E-Karatsu Meoto-Yunomi\" (Picture Karatsu Pair of Teacups) on the front, and \"Yondai Tochi Zo\" (Crafted by Fourth-Generation Tochi) along with his red seal stamp at the bottom left. This piece is identified as an authentic creation produced between the 1970s and 1980s (Showa 40s to 50s), the mature period following his succession to the name Fourth-Generation Tochi, during which he fused ancient Karatsu traditional techniques with dignified sculptural beauty.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-path-to-node=\"2\"\u003eExamining the design of this work, a warm, pale feldspar glaze is applied over the rustic, iron-rich clay body characteristic of Karatsu ware. On its surface, using the quintessential E-Karatsu technique of applying \"Tessha\" (iron oxide pigment), a powerful and energetic circular motif (arc pattern) is dynamically painted. The abstract pattern, rendered with effortless single strokes, presents a modern expression reminiscent of ancient calligraphy or celestial bodies. From the lower portion of the body extending down to the foot ring, the vessel features an unglazed raw clay (rotai) finish, where the flame-induced reddish blushes (\"hiiro\") form a vivid gradation. Furthermore, on the unglazed area beside the foot ring, the \"Sangai-bishi\" kiln mark—the mark of an official kiln granted by the Ogasawara family, former lords of Karatsu—is clearly stamped, serving as a special visual highlight that attests to its historical background.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-path-to-node=\"3\"\u003eFeaturing a smart, cylindrical form that fits comfortably in the hand along with an ideal thickness, our shop proposes this pair of vessels as a dignified \"Japanese-style pair of shot glasses (Western liquor vessels)\" for enjoying whisky, spirits, or aged sake neat or neat with a chaser, tailored to modern drinking culture and contemporary lifestyles. The elegant ground of the feldspar glaze, the subtle gradations of the iron painting, and the robust texture of the exposed clay around the foot ring beautifully enhance the amber tones of poured whisky or the clarity of fine spirits. As a pair of liquor vessels breathing with the prestige of a traditional lord's official kiln and supreme craftsmanship, this masterpiece allows one to savor the true essence of traditional Japanese craft through both sight and touch.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli data-path-to-node=\"4\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eArtist: \u003c\/strong\u003eFourth-Generation Nakano Tochi (四代 中野陶痴, 1916–2000s)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-path-to-node=\"5\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eArtist's Representative Career Highlights: \u003c\/strong\u003eStudied under First-Generation Geirin Nakano. Succeeded as the fourth-generation master of the Nakano Kiln, the official kiln of the former Lord of Karatsu Domain. Completed the restoration project of the Statues of the Four Sages at Taku Seibyo, a Nationally Designated Important Cultural Property. Produced numerous presentation pieces for the Imperial Household, including Emperor Showa, and state guests.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-path-to-node=\"6\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePublic Collections \u0026amp; Exhibitions: \u003c\/strong\u003eSaga Prefectural Kyushu Ceramic Museum, Saga Prefectural Museum, creation of the JR Karatsu Station front symbol monument (First Hikiyama: Red Lion), etc.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-path-to-node=\"7\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduction Period: \u003c\/strong\u003e1970s–1980s (Showa 40s–Showa 50s)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-path-to-node=\"8\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eItem Condition: \u003c\/strong\u003eVery Good (No chips, no cracks)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-path-to-node=\"9\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAccessories:\u003c\/strong\u003e Dedicated paulownia wooden box (Tomobako) included (with calligraphy \"E-Karatsu Meoto-Yunomi, Yondai Tochi Zo\" and red seal)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-path-to-node=\"10\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMaterial:\u003c\/strong\u003e Ceramics (Karatsu clay, feldspar glaze, iron oxide painting)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-path-to-node=\"11\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions:\u003c\/strong\u003e Large (Height approx. 9.0 cm, Mouth diameter approx. 5.8 cm) \/ Small (Height approx. 8.2 cm, Mouth diameter approx. 5.5 cm)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-path-to-node=\"12\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNote: \u003c\/strong\u003eThe items provided by our shop were produced a very long time ago and are all listed as pre-owned items. Please understand and confirm the age-related changes before considering your purchase.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e","brand":"Antique Liquor","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":48359790280891,"sku":null,"price":26000.0,"currency_code":"JPY","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0652\/0510\/8923\/files\/IMG_3534_result.jpg?v=1790495081"}],"url":"https:\/\/antiqueliquor1926.com\/en\/collections\/karatsu-ware.oembed","provider":"Antique Liquor","version":"1.0","type":"link"}