Sale! Sato Kazuaki Sawarabi Kiln Oribe Ware Exhibition Vessel - Pre-Owned

<p>Maker / Brand: Sato Kazuji, Sawarabigama Title of Work: Sato Kazuji SALE! Oribe Ware Exhibition Piece Sawarabigama Used Item</p> <p>This exquisite Oribe ware tokkuri, or sake flask, is a celebrated work by the esteemed artist Sato Kazuji of Sawarabigama. Featuring his popular crab motif, this piece showcases a unique, plump form that is rarely seen among his creations. Acquired approximately ten years ago, it has been sparingly used and remains in very good condition, having developed a beautiful depth of color and luster over time.</p> <p>Artistic & Cultural Background Oribe ware is a distinctive style of Japanese pottery, primarily produced in the Mino region, known for its bold designs and vibrant green copper glaze. Originating in the Momoyama period (late 16th to early 17th century), it was championed by the tea master Furuta Oribe, influencing its dynamic aesthetic. Sato Kazuji, born in 1948, is a prominent contemporary artist rooted in this tradition. He apprenticed under Hayashi Kotaro, a master of Shino ware, before establishing his own Sawarabigama kiln in 1977, carrying forward the legacy of traditional Momoyama ceramics.</p> <p>Design & Technique This tokkuri exemplifies the characteristic beauty of Oribe ware with its rich, earthy tones and striking green glaze. The surface features a carefully hand-painted crab motif, a design for which Sato Kazuji is particularly well-regarded. The interplay of the iron-rich clay body, the translucent green glaze, and the unglazed areas creates a dynamic visual texture, highlighting the artist's mastery of traditional glazing techniques.</p> <p>Form & Aesthetic Qualities * <strong>Voluptuous Form:</strong> The tokkuri boasts a rare, plump and inviting silhouette, a departure from the artist's more common forms, making it a distinctive piece. * <strong>Earthy Patina:</strong> Over years of gentle use, the vessel has developed a deeper color and enhanced luster, embodying the wabi-sabi aesthetic of natural aging and beauty. * <strong>Dynamic Glaze:</strong> The vibrant green Oribe glaze contrasts beautifully with the underlying earthy tones and the bold, abstract patterns created by the iron glaze, offering a striking visual experience.</p> <p>Collector & Decorative Appeal * <strong>Artist's Rarity:</strong> This specific tokkuri shape is uncommon in Sato Kazuji's oeuvre, making it a unique find for collectors of his work. It comes with its original wooden box (kyobako) and artist's signature, confirming its authenticity and provenance. * <strong>Exceptional Condition:</strong> Despite its age, the piece is in very good condition. A subtle crack at the bottom, present since its original purchase as an A-grade item, has been confirmed not to affect its functionality, with no water leakage. * <strong>Esteemed Provenance:</strong> Sato Kazuji is a recognized figure in Japanese ceramics, serving as Vice Chairman of the Mino Ceramics Association and having been selected for numerous prestigious exhibitions, including the Gifu Prefectural Art Exhibition and the Japan New Craft Exhibition.</p> <p>This piece is an ideal acquisition for those who appreciate the profound beauty and artistic heritage of Japanese Oribe ware and the masterful hand of a celebrated contemporary artist.</p> <h3>Details</h3> <table style="border-collapse:collapse;width:100%"><tr><td style="padding:4px 12px 4px 0;font-weight:bold;white-space:nowrap">Condition</td><td style="padding:4px 0">Good</td></tr><tr><td style="padding:4px 12px 4px 0;font-weight:bold;white-space:nowrap">Origin</td><td style="padding:4px 0">Mino, Gifu</td></tr><tr><td style="padding:4px 12px 4px 0;font-weight:bold;white-space:nowrap">Material</td><td style="padding:4px 0">Ceramic</td></tr><tr><td style="padding:4px 12px 4px 0;font-weight:bold;white-space:nowrap">Era</td><td style="padding:4px 0">Showa</td></tr><tr><td style="padding:4px 12px 4px 0;font-weight:bold;white-space:nowrap">Dimensions</td><td style="padding:4px 0">高さ13.5cm / 幅10cm / サイズ　高さ13.5cm×幅10cm 満水で300ml</td></tr></table>