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Japanese Ceramic Sake Bottle Chosen Karatsu Ware

Offered by: Tishu

Description
The long neck bottle of classic form was heavily potted using coarse clay with high iron content. The flask circa 18th century Edo period was purposed for Sake but could also substitute as a flower vase during tea ceremony. The surface is covered in glossy black glaze and contrasts strikingly with white ash glaze around the shoulder. The white, fired with straw, displays a splashing feather effect and fine crackles,, blending in with the black artistically. This type of Karatsu ware was originally introduced by Korean potters who were forcefully brought to Japan after the invasion of Korea at the end of 16th century. They originally settled in Naeshirogawa and Tateno area (nowadays Satsuma) and kick-started the local pottery industry. Their techniques and aesthetics spread across Japan and left strong imprints on Japanese ceramics.
This sub-type Karatsu ware is such an example, known as Chosen or Korean Karatsu. It is very desirable for its wabi-sabi aesthetic for tea ceremony.
On the base of the bottle, there are two old stickers. One shows the price in BP (British Pounds). The other states that the bottle is a black satsuma from Naeshirogawa circa 18th century. Our research contradicts the acclaimed origin and we identify the flask as being a Chosen Karatsu type. There is, however, intrinsic link between black satsuma ware and chosen karatsu ware as mentioned above because both were derived from Korean mainland prototypes.
Reference: The Golden Age of Karatsu Stoneware by Francois Villemin. Page 74 and 159.
For a very similar piece see A New Yorker's view of the world: The John C Weber Collection. Cat no. 87 on page 256.

More Information

Origin:	Japan
Period:	18th Century
Materials:	ceramic
Condition:	Good. Light surface wear with a couple of minute flakes on the glaze. Patina on the base.
Creation Date:	18-19th century
Styles / Movements:	Bespoke, Asian, Traditional
Incollect Reference #:	326251

Dimensions

H.	10.6 in;	Diam.	7 in;
H.	26.92 cm;	Diam.	17.78 cm;

Message from Seller:

Tishu, based in Atlanta, GA, offers a diverse collection ranging from Neolithic art to 20th-century collectibles, with a focus on Mid-century design, Japanese and Korean art, Asian textiles, and Contemporary Aboriginal art. Driven by a passion for timeless beauty, the gallery is open by appointment only and offers works that span 5,000 years of history. Reach them at 305-400-0561 or tishu@tishugallery.com.