This one-of-a-kind piece represents the culmination of the work of ceramic artist Yoshitaka Kato (1921-1990), a descendant of the prestigious Kobei Kiln, a Mino ware maker, during his final years. It features a "rainfall pattern" (rainy rain design) in which a beautiful blue glaze drips from the rim to the base, creating a beautiful harmony between the rich glaze and the tasteful crazing (fine cracks). The delicate yet powerful design, showcasing the master's skill, is impressive, and its comfortable size makes it suitable for practical use as a shot glass or sake cup.
The title of the work, "Sakimi" (Happiness and Snake), is a combination of the word for happiness and the zodiac sign for the year of production, 1989. 1989 marked the turning point when the era changed from Showa to Heisei, and it is thought that Yoshitaka, who was 68 years old at the time, had this specially commissioned sake vessel made to celebrate his final zodiac year, or to pray for a new era.
It comes in an inscribed paulownia wood box (with the artist's signature and seal) and yellow cloth (with the same cloth), and is in very good condition. Together with his brother, Yoshitaka Kato, a Living National Treasure, Yoshitaka Kato supported the golden age of the Kobei Kiln and was renowned as a leading figure in the Mino pottery world. This masterpiece, with its rich sensibility and unerring technique, is of great historical value.
Produced by: Yoshitaka Kato (1921-1990)
Year of production: 1989 (Heisei 1/Showa 64, Year of the Snake)
Please note: Even if the products we offer are brand new and unused, they are very old and are listed as second-hand items. Please note that the products may have damage due to aging, so please understand and check before purchasing.
