This wonderful small piece is captivating to look at and to hold. It’s signed by the artist, possibly an important artist, but we have been unable to identify.

It came from a collection of Ikebana vases and other Japanese ceramics acquired during trips to Japan in the 1970s by a very keen Australian Ikebana practitioner.

This is a sake pot in the form of a double gourd. It's great charm lies in the beautiful, uneven but perfectly controlled form.

The thumb indentation is a most beautifully intentional manipulation of the stoneware clay. This touchingly simple device gives the user a direct connection to the maker.

It feels poignantly human-scaled and intimate to place one's hand around it and one's thumb into the indentation made so carefully and intentionally.

Whether you’re buying this for use as a sake pot, or just to look at and hold, it’ll give great enjoyment.

Bizen ware is a high-fired, unglazed stoneware known for its durability and the unique markings created during wood-firing. It is part of the Mingei movement of Japanese folk-craft revival started in the early 20th century.

This is a fine example of the products of this revival. We are still researching the signature and may provide further information if we are able.

MEASURES

20cm H x 12cm Diameter

CONDITION

In very good condition. No issues with vessel. One of the applied cork feet has been peeled back to view the signature and has split the cork. Easily replaced. No box.