{"product_id":"174","title":"Matsui Koyo Masterpiece: The Zenith of Neriage - Structural Beauty of Layered Construction #174","description":"\u003cp data-path-to-node=\"19\"\u003eWe are proud to introduce a masterpiece by Matsui Koyo (1962-), who has established a unique and intellectual compositional beauty in modern Neriage (marbling) techniques. This work legitimately inherits the Neriage techniques scientifically and artistically systematized by his father, Matsui Yasunari, a Living National Treasure (Holder of Important Intangible Cultural Property) for Neri-jōzu. Koyo has elevated these techniques in his own generation to a level of further precision and modern geometric patterning, creating a piece that truly deserves to be called the art of lamination.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-path-to-node=\"20\"\u003eThe Core of the Technique: Fractal Structure of Assembly and Layering The most prominent feature of this work lies in the transcendental technique known as Kumiage (assembly) or Layered Neriage, which far exceeds the general concept of marbling. Rather than simply mixing different colors of clay, this technique involves first pressing dozens of thin clay sheets—each only a few tenths of a millimeter thick—into a single pattern block. These blocks are then precisely sliced, and the resulting fragments are reconfigured with other clay based on a different color scheme to redefine a larger and more complex pattern block. This mind-bogglingly repetitive process creates micro-architectures of clay, appearing on the surface as meticulous grids and gradations that challenge the limits of the naked eye.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-path-to-node=\"21\"\u003eTechnical Difficulty: A Struggle with the Laws of Physics The reason this Kumiage technique is considered the pinnacle of ceramic art is its extraordinarily low survival rate. In ceramics, joining clays with different properties means that even a slight difference in shrinkage rates during drying or firing will cause catastrophic cracking or delamination at the interfaces. In a laminated structure like this, thousands to tens of thousands of interfaces exist within a single vessel. To unite them in a kiln exceeding 1,200 degrees Celsius, advanced scientific knowledge is essential to match the thermal expansion coefficients of each colored clay with mathematical precision. Based on the secret clay formulas inherited from his father Yasunari—which maintain constant shrinkage regardless of color change—Koyo's meticulous calculations allow this physical miracle to take shape.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-path-to-node=\"22\"\u003eUniqueness of Form: Static Beauty Without Distortion The dignified presence of this work is also supported by the total elimination of distortion during the forming process. If the clay were pulled up on a potter's wheel like ordinary ceramics, the internal laminated patterns would be brutally stretched by the pressure of the fingers. Therefore, Koyo employs extremely specialized and time-consuming forming methods, such as hammering the clay from the outside or lavishly carving it out, to ensure the patterns are not distorted at all. This perfect coexistence of three-dimensional structural beauty and mathematical pattern accuracy is the unique aesthetic of the Matsui family.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-path-to-node=\"23\"\u003eInheritance and Innovation from Living National Treasure Matsui Yasunari Matsui Koyo has reconstructed the world of Neriage—often called a kaleidoscope of clay—through a compositional perspective cultivated during his studies at the School of Art and Design, University of Tsukuba. While the works of his father, Yasunari, sometimes evoke a sense of wild vitality through techniques like Hahyo (surface cracking), Koyo's works exude a more refined and tranquil order. This is the result of sublimating the supreme techniques received from his great pioneer father into an art of logic that harmonizes with modern spaces.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-path-to-node=\"24\"\u003eThe Ultimate Tool for Savoring Aged Spirits We recommend this piece because its overwhelming lamination resonates with the layers of time carved into whiskey through the aging process. When amber liquid is poured, the fine Neriage lines on the interior refract through the liquid, creating a moment of deep contemplation visually symbolizing the accumulation of time. Beyond simply owning a craft, it is about cherishing in one's hand the product of a human obsession that defied the laws of physics to transform clay into a jewel through fire. It will be a sublime tasting experience that echoes the profound flavors of aged spirits.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli data-path-to-node=\"25\"\u003eAuthor: Matsui Koyo (1962-)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-path-to-node=\"25\"\u003eRepresentative Career History: [1985] Graduated from the School of Art and Design, University of Tsukuba, and studied under his father, Matsui Yasunari (Living National Treasure). [1991] Won the Encouragement Award at the 38th Japan Traditional Crafts Exhibition. [2002] Received the Japan Ceramic Society Award. [2005] Won the Encouragement Award at the 33rd Traditional Crafts New Works Exhibition. [Later years] Served as a regular member of the Japan Kogei Association and a committee member of the Ibaraki Ceramic Art Museum. Museum\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-path-to-node=\"25\"\u003eCollections: Metropolitan Museum of Art (New York, USA), Victoria and Albert Museum (London, UK), National Museum of Modern Art, Tokyo, Ibaraki Ceramic Art Museum, Smith College Museum of Art (USA), etc.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-path-to-node=\"25\"\u003eProduction Date: 2000s (estimated)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-path-to-node=\"25\"\u003eCondition: Very good (no chips, no cracks) Accessories: Original box (tomobako), wrapping cloth, and descriptive leaflet included.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-path-to-node=\"25\"\u003eMaterial: Porcelain (Neriage)\u0026nbsp;\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-path-to-node=\"25\"\u003eDimensions: Diameter approx. 8.0 cm, Base Diameter approx. 4.0 cm, Height approx. 8.2 cm\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-path-to-node=\"25\"\u003eNote: Even if the products provided by our shop are new and unused, they were produced a long time ago and are listed as second-hand items. Please understand and confirm that the products may have damage due to aging before considering a purchase.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e","brand":"Antique Liquor","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":47517110239419,"sku":null,"price":135000.0,"currency_code":"JPY","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0652\/0510\/8923\/files\/IMG_4652.jpg?v=1772964629","url":"https:\/\/antiqueliquor1926.com\/en\/products\/174","provider":"Antique Liquor","version":"1.0","type":"link"}