Thirteenth Generation Yokoishi Gagyu (real name: Hiromi Yokoishi, 1925–2016) was the holder of the Nagasaki Prefectural Designated Intangible Cultural Property for Utsutsugawa-yaki. He was the restorer and grandmaster who revived Utsutsugawa-yaki—a legendary pottery that flourished for only about 50 years during the mid-Edo period before disappearing. Although Utsutsugawa-yaki was once praised as the "Treasure of the West," its techniques were lost for approximately 200 years. The Yokoishi family conducted exhaustive research over several generations, and it was the 13th generation who elevated its artistry to its absolute pinnacle. For his outstanding achievements, he was awarded the Medal with Purple Ribbon and the Order of the Rising Sun, Gold Rays with Rosette. His works are housed in the Kyushu Ceramic Museum and the Nagasaki Prefectural Art Museum, and have been frequently selected as gifts for imperial and royal families both in Japan and abroad.
The Toran-hakeme (turbulent brushwork) applied to this piece is an extremely dynamic technique that evokes raging waves and swirling currents. This technique, which lies at the heart of Utsutsugawa-yaki, is achieved by firing dark brown clay rich in iron as thinly as porcelain, and then vigorously layering white slip over it. In particular, this Toran-hakeme creates a powerful rhythm and visual depth on the surface of the vessel, with overlapping brushstrokes drawn in a single, continuous motion. Since iron-rich clay and slip have different shrinkage rates during firing, firmly adhering such a bold pattern to a thinly-made vessel without peeling requires advanced kiln control and masterful handiwork, honed by the artist through decades of dedication.
We propose this historic cylindrical cup as a special vessel for enjoying old whiskey or rare spirits. The contrast between the deep, iron-colored tone of the body and the intense ripples drawn by the pure white brushwork adds visual depth when amber liquid is poured, allowing a sense of powerful energy to coexist within a tranquil moment. The thinness of the rim delivers the delicate flavor of the spirit directly, and the turbulent design depicted within the vessel, shimmering through the liquid, offers a luxurious experience of savoring traditional Japanese aesthetics in the palm of your hand. Crafted by the master who passed away in 2016, this is a masterpiece representing the golden age of the revived and evolved Utsutsugawa-yaki.
Representative Career: 1975 Certified as a holder of Nagasaki Prefectural Designated Intangible Cultural Property, 1982 Awarded the Japan Ceramic Society Award, 1987 Awarded the Medal with Purple Ribbon, 1995 Awarded the Order of the Rising Sun, Gold Rays with Rosette.
Museum Collections: Kyushu Ceramic Museum, Nagasaki Prefectural Art Museum, etc.
Period of Creation: 1990s–2000s (The peak mature period of the artist)
Condition: Very good (No chips, no cracks)
Accessories: None
Material: Pottery (Utsutsugawa-yaki / Hakeme)
Dimensions: Height approx. 7 cm, Mouth diameter approx. 5 cm
Note: Please note that all products, even those in unused condition, are from vintage production periods and are listed as used. Items may show minor age-related wear; please confirm the condition before purchasing.
