Etchu Sansuke-yaki Ceramic Duck Sake Flask & Ewer with Original Wooden Box

Maker / Brand: Etchu Sansuke-yaki (Kosugi-yaki) Title of Work: Etchu Sansuke-yaki Duck Tokkuri (Sake Flask) with Original Wooden Box

This charming ceramic tokkuri, or sake flask, hails from the esteemed Etchu Sansuke-yaki tradition, a branch of Kosugi-yaki from Toyama Prefecture. Its most striking feature is its whimsical duck-like form, an unusual and striking design that promises to be a conversation starter. Adorned with truly unique color tones, this piece beautifully showcases the distinctive craftsmanship of its origin.

Artistic & Cultural Background Etchu Sansuke-yaki is a regional pottery style from Toyama Prefecture, known for its rustic charm and connection to the broader Kosugi-yaki tradition. Tokkuri like this one have been central to Japanese dining culture for centuries, used for serving sake, especially during communal meals and celebrations. This particular piece embodies a playful spirit, elevating a functional item into a delightful work of art.

Design & Technique The flask's design is a example to the potter's creativity, skillfully capturing the essence of a duck with its gracefully curved neck and body. The glazing technique is particularly noteworthy, featuring an earthy, warm-toned base that transitions into a vibrant, almost iridescent teal glaze cascading from the neck. This interplay of glazes creates a striking visual texture and the "unique color tones" mentioned in its original description. The approximate height of this piece is 14cm.

Form & Aesthetic Qualities * Whimsical Silhouette: The distinctive duck shape, with its elegant, elongated neck and rounded body, offers a playful yet sophisticated presence. * Organic Glaze Flow: The rich, contrasting glazes merge beautifully, creating a dynamic visual flow that highlights the vessel's contours. * Earthy Warmth: The lower body's natural, wood-like texture and warm tones provide a grounding balance to the vibrant upper glaze.

Collector & Decorative Appeal * Distinctive Collectible: A rare example of Etchu Sansuke-yaki, its unique duck form makes it a standout piece for collectors of Japanese ceramics. * Versatile Display: Perfect for serving sake, or as an eye-catching decorative accent on a shelf, mantelpiece, or dining table. * Authentic Provenance: Accompanied by its original wooden box (kyobako), which often bears inscriptions, adding to its authenticity and value.

This charming tokkuri is ideal for those who appreciate the blend of traditional Japanese craftsmanship with a touch of artistic whimsy, understanding that its history as a used item reflects its unique journey.

Details

Condition	Good
Material	Ceramic
Era	Unknown
Dimensions	大きさ　約14cm