26386 Nishioka Koju Korean Karatsu Tea Bowl

Height: 8.8 cm
Diameter: 13.0 cm

This is a top-tier work by Nishioka Kojyu, a highly skilled potter known as the "Uncrowned Genius." He dedicated himself to recreating Ko-Karatsu ware and made diverse contributions, including research on the Six Ancient Kilns. He was considered the closest to a Living National Treasure in the history of modern Japanese ceramics but remained steadfast in his pottery and research, never wavering. This piece, while strongly influenced by Momoyama Ko-Karatsu, maintains a fresh, modern sensibility. It is a Chōsen Karatsu, one of the most popular styles of Karatsu ware.

"Chōsen Karatsu" is a technique where amber glaze (iron-rich glaze) and mottled glaze (rice straw ash glaze) are applied separately to the upper and lower parts of the piece. In good Chōsen Karatsu, the areas where the mottled glaze and amber glaze blend create exceptionally beautiful colors. This is a masterpiece that combines an exquisite "keshiki" (scenery, referring to the natural appearance of the glaze) with magnificent dignity.