Kibiyaki Ware by Contemporary Master Mizukawa Toei II (二代 水川陶影): Salt-Fired Water Dropper / Whisky Dropper #200

This is a superb water dropper by Mizukawa Toei II (水川陶影, 1914–2001; Birth name: Mizukawa Katsuji), the legitimate successor of Kibiyaki ware, which has been handed down in the Tsushima region of Okayama City, Okayama Prefecture. Born in 1914 as the second son of the founder of Kibiyaki ware, Mizukawa Toei I (Toyotaro), Toei II graduated from the Ceramics Department of Kyoto Higher School of Crafts (now Kyoto Institute of Technology) in 1937. The artist elevated Kibiyaki ware, which inherited the Bizen ware tradition established by Toei II's father, to the realm of art with the modern sensibilities and solid techniques Toei II learned in Kyoto.

Conclusive evidence identifying the production period of this work is inscribed on the accompanying bookmark (potter's history). The career concludes with "1981 Juror for the Japan Crafts Council Chugoku Exhibition," and the pottery history states "45 years." This proves that this work is a masterpiece from the mature period, specifically from 1981 (Showa 56) to around 1985, when the second generation was at the peak of creative powers as an artist and had established authority. This is a work from the period when the path of pottery, which began after the artist's graduation in 1937, reached its culmination after 45 years.

The true essence of Kibiyaki ware lies in its main raw material, the local "Tsushima clay," which is rich in iron, highly viscous, and extremely difficult to handle, combined with its unique "salt firing (ensho-yaki)" technique. This technique involves introducing salt into the kiln at the peak firing temperature, reaching 1250 to 1300 degrees Celsius, where the vaporized salt components react violently with the iron in the clay. Through this arduous process, which can be called a "baptism of fire," unique "curls" and "luster" are created on the surface. This skill, where a pearly, moist shine, or vitrification, appears within deep black and profound reddish-brown colors, requires precise temperature control to achieve the ideal coloration and is considered the pinnacle of craftsmanship.

In terms of design, the most prominent feature is the wild, sharp use of the spatula, as if directly reflecting the resistance of the clay. As seen in the attached product images, strong spatula marks are clearly visible, brilliantly expressing the sturdy and robust texture felt when held in the palm. Near the bottom of the water dropper, Touei's signature "影" (Kage) is engraved, indicating its authenticity. Mizukawa Toei II, who was awarded the "Contemporary Master Craftsman" by the nation in 1986 and the "Order of the Rising Sun, Sixth Class, Single Ray" in 1987, is highly regarded, and this piece is a small work from the artist's most technically accomplished period, just before receiving these honors.

This work comes with a dedicated wooden box, signed and sealed on the lid with "Kibiyaki Water Dropper, Made by Mizukawa Toei." We propose this rare water dropper as a water dropper for enjoying aged sake or matured whisky in modern times. Incorporating traditional Japanese stationery, once used by literati for grinding ink, into the whisky lifestyle goes beyond mere tool usage; it connects to the joy of possessing the warmth and history of Japanese craftsmanship. This historical masterpiece is sure to enhance the moment when a single drop of water brings out the aroma, making it a more luxurious and profound experience.

• Artist: Mizukawa Toei II (二代 水川陶影, 1914–2001; Birth name: Mizukawa Katsuji)
• Artist's notable activities: [1914] Born in Okayama Prefecture. [1937] Graduated from the Ceramics Department of Kyoto Higher School of Crafts (now Kyoto Institute of Technology). Studied under the artist's father, Touei I, and contributed to the development of Kibiyaki ware. [1981] Served as a juror for the Japan Crafts Council Chugoku Exhibition, active as a leading figure in the regional ceramics world. [1986] Awarded the Contemporary Master Craftsman (Minister of Labor Award, Outstanding Skills Award). [1987] Awarded the Order of the Rising Sun, Sixth Class, Single Ray. [1991] Awarded the Okayama Prefectural Culture Award. Full member of the Japan Crafts Council.
• Works housed: Okayama Prefectural Museum of Art, Okayama City Museum of Art, Kasaoka City Chikkyo Art Museum, etc.
• Production 
• Period: Circa 1981 - 1985
• Product Condition: Very good (no chips, no cracks)
• Accessories: Dedicated wooden box, bookmark included
• Material: Pottery (salt-fired, Tsushima clay)
• Dimensions: Height approx. 4cm, Width approx. 4.1cm, Depth approx. 4.5cm (palm-sized)
• Note: All products offered by our shop, even if new and unused, are extremely old productions and are listed as used items. Products may have damage due to age, so please understand and confirm before considering purchase.
• Please check the photos: We prepare every description with great care, but errors may still remain in the text. Please examine the photos carefully before purchasing. Where the photos and the description differ, please take the photos as the basis for the product information.