Matsumoto Isami (松本為佐視): A Pair of Emerald Celadon Sake Cups — Redefining Ru Ware and the Zenith of Emerald Green through Rayleigh Scattering #172

Matsumoto Isami (松本為佐視, 1931–2012) was a master potter of the highest pedigree in contemporary Japanese ceramics. Having studied under the legendary Kusube Yaichi (recipient of the Order of Culture) and Zenju Miyashita, the artist dedicated a lifetime to the "spirit of ceramics as pure art that transcends practical use." This set of two sake cups is a quintessential work from Matsumoto’s mature period, representing a harmonious fusion of dignified form and meticulously calculated layers of color.

The most extraordinary feature of this work is the captivatingly deep emerald green hue. This mystical color is the result of a physical phenomenon achieved only by precisely controlling the iron oxide content in the glaze within a minute range of 0.1% to 0.3%, while maintaining a perfectly constant reducing atmosphere in the kiln at high temperatures around 1,300°C. This technique redefines the "heavenly blue" (Tianqing) of China’s legendary Song Dynasty Ru Ware through a modern chemical approach, intentionally inducing "Rayleigh scattering." Light reflects off microscopic bubbles and undissolved particles within the glaze layer, creating a deep, internally luminous transparency that industrial pigments can never replicate.

In terms of form, the elegant presence of the cups overcomes the high shrinkage rates inherent to porcelain clay. The "line engraving technique" inherited from the artist’s masters requires a sublime level of sensitivity, with the needle moving with sub-millimeter precision within the fleeting window when the clay is semi-dry—an irreversible process that allows for no error. The ability to evenly fix a deep celadon glaze on such thin, refined porcelain while perfectly controlling the crackle (kanyu) is a testament to Matsumoto's mastery of firing schedules, honed through a long tenure as a judge for the Nitten (Japan Fine Arts Exhibition).

Due to overwhelming technical prowess and artistic integrity, Matsumoto was twice awarded the "Tokusen" (Special Selection) at the Nitten, the most prestigious art exhibition in Japan, and later served in influential roles as a judge and council member. Matsumoto’s reputation extends internationally, with works held in world-class institutions such as the Spencer Museum of Art (University of Kansas, USA), the Minneapolis Institute of Art (USA), and the Mary and Jackson Burke Foundation (New York). Notably, the Spencer Museum utilizes the artist’s work as "living teaching material" for the study of modern reinterpretations of Ru Ware and the evolution of porcelain in Kyoto, underscoring Matsumoto’s profound academic value.

Crafted with the belief that "a vessel is a sanctuary where the poured liquid and the user’s heart meet," these cups embody a celebratory prayer that transcends their function as drinking vessels. Blending classical Chinese aesthetics with the sophisticated modern expressionism of 20th-century Kyoto, this specific shade of "Blue" will provide exceptional satisfaction even to discerning collectors of high-end crystal glass such as Baccarat or Lalique. The moment amber whisky or clear sake is poured, the emerald green born from Rayleigh scattering resonates with the liquid, bringing a quiet dynamism to your table. This is a supreme masterpiece that encapsulates a timeless aesthetic.

• Artist: Matsumoto Isami (松本為佐視, 1931–2012)
• Notable Career Achievements: Awarded the 10th Nitten Tokusen (1967) and the 6th Nitten Tokusen (1974). Served as Nitten Judge, Nitten Council Member, and Director of the Kyoto Craft Artists Association.
• Public Collections: Spencer Museum of Art (University of Kansas, USA), Minneapolis Institute of Art (USA), Mary and Jackson Burke Foundation (USA), Kyoto City KYOCERA Museum of Art, Itsuo Art Museum (Osaka, Japan), and more.
• Production Period: Circa 1990s (Estimated) 
• Condition: Excellent (no chips or cracks)
• Accessories: Original signed wooden box (Tomobako) and wrapping cloth (Tomonuno) included.
• Material: Porcelain, Celadon Glaze
• Dimensions: Diameter approx. 5.6 cm, Height approx. 5.6 cm
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