Eguchi Katsumi (江口勝美), Washi-zome Floral Design, Living Legend of Hizen Pottery, Supreme Beer Glass Set of 2 #167

Eguchi Katsumi (江口勝美, 1936–) is a master craftsman who in 1968 revived the Koyamaji Kiln, the orthodox lineage of Southern Old Karatsu that has continued in Takeo, Saga Prefecture since the late Momoyama period. Celebrating Eguchi's 88th birthday (Beiju) in 2024, Eguchi remains a legendary figure in the world of Hizen pottery.This pair of beer glasses represents a pinnacle of craft aesthetics, blending the traditional texture of Karatsu with the artist's original "Washi-zome" (Japanese paper dyeing) technique.

The core of this work, the Washi-zome technique, involves adhering thin Washi paper to the bisque-fired ceramic surface and infusing pigments through it. The ethereal gradients that seep through the gaps in the fibers, a result impossible to achieve with a direct brushstroke, give the viewer a sense of watercolor-like transparency. Eguchi meticulously calculates the clay components and pigment absorption rates, ensuring the floral patterns are fused deep into the ceramic through firing, imbuing them with eternal life.

The comfortable weight felt the moment you hold the glass and the powerful carving toward the base evoke the sophisticated style of Eguchi's peak period—the same era when the artist's work was honored with the Prime Minister's Award and acquired by the Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A) in London. When golden beer is poured, the delicate "kannu" (crazing) on the surface emerges as a vivid "scenery" in contrast with the liquid. The natural pores of the ceramic maintain a creamy head, and the thickness of the walls prevents heat from being transferred from the hand, ensuring the ideal temperature is maintained until the very last drop.

Having been honored with the privilege of presenting works to the Crown Prince and Prince Takamatsu, and involved in the national preservation of technical records, Eguchi has poured supreme craftsmanship into this pair. These are not merely drinking vessels but artistic treasures with significant documentary value. To experience the passion of a master who redefined a lost tradition while enjoying a chilled drink is a cultural privilege reserved for those who understand true value.

• Artist: Eguchi Katsumi (江口勝美, 1936–)
• Notable Achievements: [1961: West Japan Crafts Exhibition, Asahi Shimbun Prize (Grand Prize)], [1962: National Prefectural Selection Exhibition, Minister of Education Award], [1972: 19th Japan Traditional Crafts Exhibition, Best Work Award (Asahi Shimbun Prize)], [1979: 5th Japan Ceramic Art Exhibition, Excellent Work Award], [1981: 26th Japan Traditional Crafts Exhibition, Encouragement Award], [1983: West Japan Ceramic Art Exhibition, Grand Prize (Prime Minister's Award)], [1985: Japan Ceramic Association Award]
• Production Period: Circa 1989 – Early 1990s
• Condition: Very good (No chips, no cracks)
• Accessories: Dedicated wooden box, artist's brochure (Shiori)
• Material: Ceramic 
• Dimensions: Height approx. 8.5 cm, Diameter approx. 6.5 cm
• Note: Even if the products we offer are brand new and unused, they were produced a long time ago and are listed as second-hand items. Please understand that items may show age-related wear or damage, so please check the condition carefully before purchasing.
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