Hisatoshi Iwata (1925–1994), born in Tokyo, was a rare master who elevated contemporary Japanese glass art from mere decoration to the status of fine art. His works are held in the permanent collections of world-renowned institutions, including the Metropolitan Museum of Art and the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) in New York, the Musée des Arts Décoratifs in Paris, and The Corning Museum of Glass, the world's preeminent glass museum. He has established an immovable position as an international artist of whom Japan is justly proud. As the inscription "September 1981" on the base of this work indicates, this monumental masterpiece was created during Iwata’s most prolific period, just before he received the Japan Art Academy Award in 1982.
The core of this work, the Yahazu (arrow-notch) pattern, is a technique that represents the very essence of Iwata’s artistry. It is created by physically stretching and rotating layers of molten glass of different colors. To control the brilliant, flame-like red and pure white glass layers without distortion on such a large vessel—measuring approximately 23 cm in diameter and 25 cm in height—requires highly sophisticated heat management and master-level hotworking skills. The opaque white and transparent red glass, which possess different thermal expansion coefficients, are fused at the molecular level in a molten state exceeding 1,000 degrees Celsius. The precise physical calculations required to avoid breakage during the cooling process represent the pinnacle of the "dialogue between fire and matter."
Visually, the passionate scarlet energy appears to well up from the bottom of the vessel, brimming with vitality, while the white lines at the rim and base tighten the overall impression, lending a modern sense of tension. We propose this masterpiece with its overwhelming presence as an "ice bowl" for the finest whiskies. The cool brilliance reflected from the ice inside the vessel resonates with Iwata’s "fire" pattern, creating the ultimate stage to adorn the amber liquid. Hisatoshi Iwata's aesthetic, recognized by museums worldwide, will elevate the tranquil ritual of a special evening to an unprecedented moment of luxury.
Produced by: Iwata Glass Studio
Artist: Hisatoshi Iwata (1925–1994)
Artist's Notable Achievements: [1976] Minister of Education Award at the Nitten Exhibition; [1982] Japan Art Academy Award Date of Creation: September 1981 (inscribed on the base)
Condition: Excellent (No chips or cracks)
Accessories: Original signed wooden box (with "Beni-Yahazu" calligraphy)
Material: Hand-blown glass
Dimensions: Diameter approx. 23 cm, Height approx. 25 cm
Notice①: The black spots visible in this area are 'iron spots' (iron mottling), caused by the natural iron minerals within the clay reacting during the firing process. Rather than artificial stains, these are an integral part of the vessel's unique 'Keshiki' (scenery), born within the 1,200°C flames. We invite you to appreciate this as a singular, organic characteristic of the piece.
Notice②: 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.
