Seiji Saké Set by Ikai Yūichi

Description

Kyoto native 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.

Celadon, or seiji in Japanese, is an ash glaze 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 first dipping his celadon pots, and that has put him in territory that few Japanese potters dare to enter.

This celadon saké set is a lovely example of Ikai Yūichi's mastery of the seiji technique.  Thousands of well defined layers of glass, some several layers deep, are framed by an intricate mosaic of kanyū cracks, adding a multidimensional quality to the sea of chalky blue.

For the aficionado who appreciates fine saké from the finest pottery.

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

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