Since graduating from the Tokyo School of Fine Arts (now Tokyo University of the Arts) in 1950, Hisatoshi Iwata (1925–1994) has been a preeminent master of contemporary glass art, earning Japan's most prestigious honors, including the Minister of Education Award at the Nitten Exhibition and the Japan Art Academy Award. His works are held in the permanent collections of world-renowned institutions such as the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York, the Musée des Arts Décoratifs in Paris, and The Corning Museum of Glass, earning international acclaim for elevating glass craftsmanship to the realm of fine art. This monumental lapis lazuli spouted vessel was created by Iwata with profound respect to commemorate the 1992 designation of Tokiwazu Mojibei as a Holder of Important Intangible Cultural Property (Living National Treasure). It is a rare masterpiece that crystallizes both Iwata's mature aesthetic and a story of deep friendship.
The technical uniqueness of this piece lies in the exceptionally challenging cased glass (Kise-glass) technique, which requires fusing layers of different colored glass in a molten state. Molecularly bonding glass with different thermal expansion coefficients demands precise physical calculations to prevent cracking during the cooling process, as well as the ability to make split-second decisions at temperatures exceeding 1,200°C. In particular, the design—where the deep lapis lazuli body is seamlessly fused with a clear rim—serves as a testament to Iwata's advanced hot-working skills, capturing the moment when glass exhibits its most beautiful fluidity and imbuing it with a lifelike vitality impossible to replicate in industrial products.
Visually, light passing through the thick glass refracts in complex patterns, revealing a deep sapphire-like blue that shifts in expression depending on the viewing angle. We propose this dignified piece as a Mother Water Pitcher, specifically designed to unlock the complex aromas of the finest whiskies. Its exquisite size fits perfectly in the hand, possessing the elegance required for the tranquil ritual of adding a few drops of pure water to an amber spirit. The light reflecting off the lapis-hued water and the single drop poured to awaken the whiskey’s profound depths will be elevated to a supreme experience, made possible by Iwata’s world-renowned artistry.
Produced by: Iwata Glass Studio
Artist: Hisatoshi Iwata (1925–1994)
Notable Achievements: [1976] Minister of Education Award at the Nitten Exhibition; [1982] Japan Art Academy Award
Public Collections: The National Museum of Modern Art, Tokyo, The National Museum of Modern Art, Kyoto, Hokkaido Museum of Modern Art, The Japan Art Academy, The Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, The Corning Museum of Glass, New York, Museum Kunstpalast, Düsseldorf, Musée des Arts Décoratifs, Paris, and others.
Date of Production: Circa 1992
Condition: Excellent (No chips or cracks)
Accessories: Original box and artist's chronicle (shiori) included
Material: Hand-blown glass
Dimensions: Diameter approx. 10.9 cm, Height approx. 6.8 cm, Depth approx. 9 cm
Notice: While this item is in unused condition, it is a vintage piece produced many years ago and is therefore listed as second-hand. Please be aware that vintage items may show minor signs of age. We invite you to examine the provided images carefully before considering your purchase.
