Antique Japanese Bizen Ware Cylindrical Vase Hidasuki & Goma Ash Glaze 10"

Antique Japanese Bizen Ware Cylindrical Vase, Hidasuki and Goma Ash Glaze

Japan, Showa period, mid 1900's 

Dimensions: 3"W × 10" H (8 cm × 25 cm)

Thrown in the dense, iron-rich stoneware clay characteristic of Bizen ware (備前焼), this handsome cylindrical vase displays the full range of effects produced by the kiln's natural wood-ash atmosphere. The body carries a rich warm brown ground overlaid with goma (胡麻) ash glaze — the scattered gold and cream speckle produced when falling ash melts onto the surface during extended anagama firing. A bold vertical stroke of hidasuki (緋襷) flash marks the front face in amber and russet, created by the straw rope or cord wrapped around the vessel before loading. The shoulder transitions to a soft grey-green where ash accumulation was densest, and the throwing rings visible along the body confirm hand-formation on the wheel. Interior shows characteristic unglazed Bizen clay. An incised potter's mark is present on the base. No applied glaze; all surface effects are purely the result of flame, ash, and kiln atmosphere.

Condition: Excellent. No chips, cracks, or repairs. Some natural kiln grit on the base, as expected.

A textbook example of Bizen's elemental beauty — a ware that has changed little in technique or philosophy since the Muromachi period.