24103 Living National Treasure Miura Koheiji (Celadon bean-colored water-drawing sake cup (MK seal))

Height 5.5cm Diameter 6.0cm

*MK mark

Although he was born into a family that owned Mumyoi-yaki pottery in Sado, he studied sculpture at Tokyo University of the Arts and mastered the traditional techniques of celadon under Living National Treasure Kato Hachimoe. His celadon works, strongly influenced by the Chinese Southern Song Dynasty official kilns, have earned him high praise worldwide. This is an outstanding work by the master Miura Koheiji, who has been recognized as a Living National Treasure for his brilliant achievements in Japan, including his work that won the Minister of Education Award at the Japan Traditional Crafts Exhibition and was selected for purchase by the Agency for Cultural Affairs. This work is filled with the artistry of Miura Koheiji, who elevated the Southern Song Dynasty official kilns to the modern era.

Fascinated by celadon, he traveled to China, Afghanistan, India, Turkey, and other countries, and expressed his own unique worldview by adding sculptural and pictorial elements to celadon. This piece depicts a woman drawing water, and the red color in particular is very beautiful. Combined with the celadon of the vessel, it creates a fantastical atmosphere.