Reigning at the pinnacle of modern Tokoname ware and certified as a Holder of Tokoname City Designated Intangible Cultural Property in 2013, the contemporary master Yohei Konishi (1941– ) created this water dropper in Shudei Neriage Genshin-sai. Konishi won the Silver Prize at the Vallauris International Ceramics Biennale in France in 1982, and his artistry has established a global reputation, with works collected in prestigious institutions such as the Victoria and Albert Museum in the UK and the Philadelphia Museum of Art in the USA. While this piece was originally created as a water dropper (Suiteki) used in Japanese calligraphy, our gallery proposes it as a special utensil for fine spirits (Whisky Dropper, Water Dropper) to add water drop by drop to aged whiskies and spirits, opening up their aromas.
The absolute core of this work lies in the Neriage (marbled clay) technique, in which clays of different colors—starting with Tokoname's iconic Shudei (red clay) and Kokudei (black clay)—are layered multiple times to reveal unique geometric patterns resembling annual rings or geological strata across the cut faces. The flowing spiral and polygonal continuous patterns seen in the image are not painted on the surface; they are formed by the layered clay itself penetrating through the entire thickness of the vessel. Konishi's Neriage relies on supreme craftsmanship that perfectly controls the different shrinkage rates of various clays to prevent cracking, combining clays with millimeter-level precision. Furthermore, in this piece, delicate faceting (facet carving) is applied to the surface of the densely layered Neriage body, forming a polyhedral structure where the geological strata patterns of the Neriage emerge three-dimensionally depending on the angle of light. Inside the foot at the base, along with a vivid spiral Neriage pattern, Konishi's mark "Yo" is clearly carved.
In terms of form, the ultimate technique of hand-thrown pottery on a potter's wheel—which served as the reason for his designation as an Intangible Cultural Property holder—is demonstrated without reserve. The spout and the top water inlet (Hibikiguchi) are thrown with extreme delicacy, showing the true essence of wheel-throwing technology that pulls the clay up to its absolute structural limit. The surface coloration, referred to as Genshin-sai, harbors deep shadows within the calm hues woven by Shudei and Kokudei. It possesses the inherent charm of Tokoname ware, gaining luster over time through contact with natural skin oils and moisture as it is used, growing alongside its owner. When adding water drop by drop to whisky, the amber liquid resonates with the vessel's polyhedral design reminiscent of geological strata, elevating daily enjoyment into a contemplative tasting experience.
The production period of this work is identified as the late 1980s to early 1990s. As evidence, the handwriting style and seal impression on the accompanying original signed wooden box (Tomobako) perfectly match the characteristics of the period when Konishi's Neriage technique and polyhedral forming reached their deepest maturity after winning the Silver Prize at the Vallauris International Ceramics Biennale in 1982. Additionally, the final entry on the enclosed artist biography leaflet reads "Showa 54 (1979)," indicating that this version of the biography, used throughout the 1980s, was included. This is a valuable piece showcasing Konishi's unique sculptural beauty established from the mid-1980s to the early 1990s.
- Artist: Yohei Konishi (1941– )
- Major Career Highlights: [1982] Won the Silver Prize at the Vallauris International Ceramics Biennale in France, [2013] Certified as a Holder of Tokoname City Designated Intangible Cultural Property. Regular Member of the Japan Art Crafts Association.
- Museum Collections: Victoria and Albert Museum (UK), Philadelphia Museum of Art (USA), Aichi Prefectural Ceramic Museum, INAX Live Museum, among others.
- Production Period: Late 1980s to early 1990s
- Item Condition: Very Good (No chips, no cracks)
- Accessories: Original signed wooden box (Tomobako), artist biography leaflet (Shiori), wrapping cloth
- Materials: Pottery (Tokoname Ware, Neriage / Marbled Clay)
- Dimensions: Height approx. 6.0 cm, Width approx. 5.5 cm
- Note: Even if items offered by our store are unused, they were produced a very long time ago and are all listed as pre-owned items. Please inspect and understand that the item may show age-related changes before considering your purchase.
