Seiji Kōsai Tea Ceremony Bowl by Ikai Yūichi

Description

Ikai Yūichi has trained under designated Living National Treasure Shimizu Uichi (1926-2004), an artist renowned for his unhindered exploration into several ceramic disciplines, including iron and ash glazes like tenmoku and celadon.  With such an inspirational pioneer to serve as his sensei, it was only natural that Ikai would venture into these areas himself some day.

Among the ash glazes in Ikai Yūichi's glazing repertory, celadon is one where he has firmly established his name.  Called seiji in Japanese, the glaze is denoted by a network of fine cracks (kanyū) which forms beneath the glassy surface of the glaze while cooling in the kiln.  In order for these details to develop sufficiently, precise forming and uniform glazing are essential - strict requirements rather hard to accept for an artist who avoids the mechanization of his craft.  As a result, Ikai chooses the much more difficult path of dipping his celadon pots, and that has put him in territory that few Japanese potters dare to enter.

This striking tea ceremony bowl is inspired by the spirits of fire and water.  Thousands of well defined layers of glass are framed by an intricate mosaic of kanyū cracks, adding a multidimensional quality to the sea of chalky blue.  And following his recent creative impulse, the artist has colored the face of the bowl (shōmen) with a copper glaze whose deep crimson hues (kōsai) form under their own particular kiln conditions.  That both came out harmoniously balanced is truly a marvel, and the bowl stands as a testament to Mr. Ikai's masterful glazing and forming skill.

A treasure worthy of inclusion in any celadon collection.

A wooden presentation box will be custom made to order and signed by the artist.  Delivery time for this item is 2 weeks.

A fukusa display cloth is included.

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