Ito Sekisui V (born 1941) is a master of Japanese ceramics who was designated as a Living National Treasure in 2003 as the holder of the Important Intangible Cultural Property "Mumyoi-yaki," making him the first from Sado Island to receive this honor. While inheriting the traditions of the prestigious Sekisui Kiln, which dates back to the late Edo period, he established a unique "Yo-hen" (kiln transformation) technique, solidifying the international artistic standing of Mumyoi-yaki. His exceptional techniques are permanently housed in major museums worldwide, including the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York and the Victoria and Albert Museum in London, officially recognized as cultural heritage for humanity to preserve.
The Mumyoi-yaki utilized in this work is crafted from red clay rich in iron oxide, sourced from the vicinity of the Sado Gold Mine. This clay consists of extremely fine particles and exhibits an exceptionally high shrinkage rate of approximately 30% during firing, making it highly susceptible to cracking and warping. Consequently, achieving a finished piece requires the master craftsman's incredibly precise calculations and masterful skill. Although the design is "Yakishime" (unglazed stoneware), by controlling the kiln's flames to the absolute limit, the artist has transformed parts of the red clay into a deep jet black, showcasing the pinnacle of Yo-hen artistry. These traces of flame, which transcend human intention, are often described as reflections of Sado's rugged natural landscapes or the spray of waves crashing against the cliffs, embodying a quiet strength that shuns ostentation.
Our shop redefines this unique vessel, crafted by a Living National Treasure, as the ultimate vessel for savoring aged sake or Japanese whiskey that has acquired complex aromas over decades of maturation. The hard, fine texture unique to Mumyoi-yaki, coupled with the dramatic contrast of red and black, visually enhances the amber hues of fine spirits. It possesses a functional beauty that elevates a quiet moment of reflection into something more spiritual. The dialogue between earth and fire that emerges after stripping away all ornamentation embodies the Japanese aesthetic of wabi-sabi, imparting a sense of serene dignity to the holder.
Author: Ito Sekisui V (born 1941)
Artist's Notable Activities: Elevated the "Mumyoi-yaki" tradition of Sado Island to the realm of fine art, and was designated a Living National Treasure (Holder of Important Intangible Cultural Property for Mumyoi-yaki) in 2003. [1973] Recipient of the Prince Takamatsu Memorial Award at the Japan Traditional Craft Exhibition; [2005] Awarded the Medal with Purple Ribbon; [2011] Awarded the Order of the Rising Sun, Gold Rays with Rosette.
Museum Collections: The National Museum of Modern Art, Tokyo; The National Museum of Modern Art, Kyoto; The Metropolitan Museum of Art; Victoria and Albert Museum; Smithsonian Institution; and others.
Period of Creation: 2000s–2010s (The mature period after designation as a Living National Treasure). The "Yo-hen" (kiln transformation) in this work is Sekisui V's signature design, transforming red clay into jet black solely through flame control to express Sado’s rugged coastline. This represents the peak of his expression—a style where natural power and tranquility resonate beyond human intent, refined around the time of his 2003 designation.
Dimensions: Height approx. 8.0 cm, Mouth diameter approx. 6.2 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.
