Born in Kitsuki City, Oita Prefecture in 1935, Kenji Suzuki is a master craftsman who studied under Rokubei Kiyomizu VI, a member of the Japan Art Academy and a legendary figure in Kyo-yaki. Inheriting the sophisticated aesthetic sense and refined techniques of Kyoto, Suzuki established the Tsukasa Kiln in 1970. As a holder of the Oita Prefectural Designated Intangible Cultural Property for Kitsuki-yaki, he has pursued a unique artistic vision built upon a foundation of traditional techniques. The "Nerikomi" (marbled clay) and "Inlay" (Zogan) techniques featured in this work are hallmarks of his mastery. Nerikomi involves the meticulous layering of differently colored clays to create patterns within the cross-section; it is a high-risk process where the varying shrinkage rates of the clays often lead to cracking during firing, thus requiring exceptional skill. As a Full Member of the Japan Art Crafts Association, his work has long been acclaimed at major exhibitions like the Japan Traditional Art Crafts Exhibition. In 1998, he received the Oita Prefectural Distinguished Service Award (Cultural Merit). His artistic value is officially established, with works housed in the Oita Prefectural Art Museum (OPAM) and the Kitsuki City Historical Museum.
Our shop redefines this vessel, originally designed as a calligraphic "Suiteki" for dripping water drop by drop, as a "Whisky Dropper" for perfectly unlocking the aromas of rare aged spirits and single malts. When spirits matured for decades are diluted with an extremely small amount of water, the surface tension changes, causing a "blooming" effect that dramatically releases complex layers of trapped aroma and flavor. This vessel's specialized form is ideal for the millimeter-precision control required for such a delicate process.
Its method of use is remarkably intuitive and elegant. By lightly covering the small air hole on the top with a fingertip and subtly adjusting the pressure, the user can control the internal airflow with total precision. This allows one to guide a single drop exactly as intended into the amber liquid. The dignified form inherited from Rokubei Kiyomizu VI combined with the "Seigaiha" (Blue Ocean Waves) pattern—a testament to Suzuki’s mastery as an intangible cultural property holder—represents a rare fusion of calculated technique and the raw character of the clay. This rare piece of Japanese craftsmanship is both a functional tool and a unique collector’s item that invites the luxury of traditional beauty into a modern lifestyle.
Artist: Kenji Suzuki (born 1935)
Artist's Representative Activities: Born in Oita Prefecture. Apprenticed under the legendary Rokubei Kiyomizu VI, refining his formative sense and technical mastery in Kyoto. Established Tsukasa Kiln in 1970 in his hometown of Kitsuki. A holder of the Oita Prefectural Designated Intangible Cultural Property "Kitsuki-yaki." As a Full Member of the Japan Art Crafts Association, he has received numerous honors at the Japan Traditional Art Crafts Exhibition and the Seibu Traditional Art Crafts Exhibition. In 1998, he was honored with the Oita Prefectural Distinguished Service Award (Cultural Merit). He established a distinctive style by integrating "Nerikomi" (marbled clay) with intricate "Inlay," elevating local traditional craft to the level of fine art.
Museum Collections: Oita Prefectural Art Museum (OPAM), Kitsuki City Historical Museum, and others.
Period of Creation: From 1998 onwards (The mature period following his Distinguished Service Award). The "Nerikomi Inlay" in this work is a technically demanding process involving the integration of multiple clays with different shrinkage rates, entailing an extremely high risk of damage during firing. This rare masterpiece represents the peak of his technical perfection and modern aesthetic form.
Condition: Very good (No chips, no cracks)
Accessories: Original signed wooden box (Tomobako), wrapping cloth, introductory leaflet
Material: Pottery (Kitsuki-yaki / Nerikomi Inlay)
Dimensions: Height approx. 4.5 cm, Width approx. 6.0 cm, Depth approx. 8.0 cm
Note: Please note that all products provided by our store, even if 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.
