Theory of Art Creation 17 "Tamba Sake Ware"
Special feature on sake ware from Tamba
The appeal of Tamba SAKE CUP
Tanba ware is known as one of the six ancient kilns of Japan, and is a traditional craft with over 1,000 years of history. It is characterized by the ruggedness that makes use of the texture of the clay and the beauty that comes from the randomness of the glaze. There are many artists who have inherited this tradition while incorporating modern sensibilities to produce unique finishes.
The history and appeal of Tamba Tachikui ware
Tamba Tachikui ware is a pottery with a long history, centered around the Imada area of Sasayama City (now Tamba Sasayama City) in Hyogo Prefecture. Counted as one of the Six Ancient Kilns (Seto, Tokoname, Shigaraki, Bizen, Echizen, and Tamba), the kiln has been producing "simple, unadorned tableware for daily use" since it first opened. It continues to fascinate many people with its unique texture, which deepens with use and is created by the strong earthenware.
The greatest feature of Tamba Tachikui ware is the unique color and pattern that is created by "ash covering" that occurs when the ash from the wood, the iron in the soil, and the glaze react chemically during firing in a climbing kiln for about 60 hours. The color and appearance of the ash on the surface of the vessel changes depending on the angle and temperature of the flame, so no two pieces are the same. This is what gives Tamba ware its unique charm.
In addition, a counterclockwise kick wheel is traditionally used, and this unique rotation rhythm creates simple yet powerful forms. Among the Six Ancient Kilns, Tamba ware has developed mainly around "tableware for daily life," and it has continued to be loved through the ages for its unadorned simplicity and practicality.
What is the appeal of Nishibata Tadashi?
Tadashi Nishibata is a ceramic artist who continues to carry on the traditions and techniques of Tanba ware into the present day. Each sake vessel he creates is unique, yet each time you use it you can feel the warmth and delicacy of the vessel, making it a special item.
The charm of Tanba natural glaze tokkuri clay and long firing times
Tanba Shizenyu Tokkuri is a work that is thoroughly committed to the charm of the clay, and is characterized by a hard and durable finish that is firmly fired for a long time. This hardness gives the whole tokkuri a powerful impression, and gives the viewer a sense of security. In addition to the hardness, the shape and color have a gentleness and warmth, and these are in perfect harmony, allowing you to fully enjoy the charm of Tanba ware.
The rough texture reminds us of the earth and evokes nostalgic feelings. When you hold it in your hand, you can feel the breath of nature, and the texture gives you a comfortable sense of security. The simple yet attractive texture is perfect for everyday use, and it blends naturally into any dining table, enhancing the food and drinks.
The calming color will soothe your soul every time you use it, and its unique presence will be appreciated by your guests. This tokkuri is an item that will make your tea ceremony or mealtimes even more special.
Tanba straw white glaze sake bottle with an overwhelming presence
The Tamba straw white glaze tokkuri is a work that features a bold shape that divides the clay and the white glaze, and an overwhelming presence. This tokkuri has a versatile design that can also be used as a flower vase, and it is a harmonious blend of roughness and delicacy. The strength of the red clay and the smooth, delicate beauty of the white glaze are fused together, and this contrast gives the tokkuri a dynamic impression as a whole. The shape makes a strong impact on the viewer, and the design is one in which natural and man-made beauty coexist. In contrast to its bold appearance, it has an elegant and tranquil Zen beauty. The simple shape and calm color evoke the spirit of the tea ceremony, bringing peace and tranquility. This special piece creates a meditative moment and calms the mind.
Tanba straw white glaze sake cup The beauty of the straw white glaze is like a snowy landscape
The straw white glaze creates a pattern that resembles a snowy landscape, and its beauty captivates the viewer. The unique pattern created by the glaze naturally flowing down is reminiscent of a quiet winter landscape and has a calming effect. It features a powerful shape that is hard to believe is a sake cup. Its weight and beautiful triangular proportions make a strong impression the moment you pick it up.
Ichino GENWA's sake cups are a concentrated expression of the charm of Tamba ware
These two sake cups are masterpieces that perfectly combine the tradition and innovation of Tamba ware. Each sake cup has a unique presence, as if it were a direct embodiment of the natural beauty created by the clay and flames. The first sake cup is attractive for its strong red clay texture and unique expression created by the natural glaze. The bold form and subtle color changes caused by the firing process overwhelm the viewer. Its rough texture gives a sense of the simplicity of the Tamba clay, and every time you pick it up, you are reminded of your connection with nature. The other sake cup has a beautiful contrast between the smooth white glaze and the base, giving it a warm and soft impression. The naturally occurring kiln-change pattern gives a sense of tranquility and dignity, and you will rediscover its charm every time you use it.
Fusion of craftsmanship and nature
These sake cups fully express the unique texture of Ichino Motokazu. From the selection of the clay to the firing process, the artist's technique and the power of nature come together, and no two are the same. The profound scenery and refined finish speak of the high level of the maker's technique.
Seiichi Onishi's red clay kiln-transformed sake cups, showcasing the essence of Tanba ware
This red clay kiln-transformed sake bottle is a perfect embodiment of the tradition and innovation of Tamba ware. The history of Tamba ware dates back to the Kamakura period, and the firing technique in climbing kilns has been passed down. This work was also fired in a traditional climbing kiln, and its appeal lies in the unique color and texture created by the kiln transformation caused by the flames of red pine firewood. The greatest feature of this sake bottle is the unique expression created by the kiln transformation. The iron in the red clay of Tamba oxidizes during firing, creating a beautiful reddish brown color. Furthermore, the ash and flames produced when burning split pine logs create a dynamic, natural pattern that emerges throughout the work, captivating the viewer.
A fusion of aesthetic beauty and practicality
The large, well-balanced size of 21.5cm in height creates an exquisite shape that fits comfortably in the hand when pouring sake. The refined form combines traditional beauty with practicality, making it suitable for both special occasions and everyday use. The soft curves of the tokkuri and the deep colors created by the kiln firing add warmth to any space. This tokkuri was created by fusing the techniques of skilled Tamba ware artisans with the power of nature. The glaze-free Yakishime technique brings out the charm of the base material itself, giving it a sense of both natural strength and delicacy. This technique respects the traditions of Tamba ware while creating a new beauty that appeals to modern connoisseurs.
Blown mud gold and blue sake cup by Shimizu Ichiji
Vivid design and unique presence
The most distinctive feature of this Fukido Kinpekisai sake cup is the beautiful design of gold and navy blue curves on a vivid blue background. The gold lines that stand out against the blue background give a sense of splendor, while the navy blue curves give a sense of calm and harmony. The contrast of these colors is exquisite, and the artistry draws the viewer in. In addition, the unique texture of the Fukido technique makes it warm and pleasant to the touch the moment you hold it. This work is a generous expression of Shimizu Ichiji's skilled technique. The depiction of the fine patterns and smooth curves using the Fukido technique is a perfect fusion of traditional techniques and innovation. You can feel the warmth and unique individuality that can only be achieved through handcrafting, and it is also highly refined as a craft item. This sake cup is not just a sake cup, but also creates a special time to enjoy sake. The shape that fits comfortably in your hand and the beautiful design make the experience of drinking sake itself richer and more luxurious. It will add a touch of color to your dining table and make your precious moments even more brilliant.
White glaze ink-painted sake cup by Shimizu Ichiji
Simple and striking design
This white-glazed sake cup features a delicate pattern that looks like ink dripping on a white background. A faint blue color is placed on top of it, giving the overall atmosphere a gentle and soft impression. The arrangement of the pattern is natural yet calculated, and the piece has a strong presence despite its simplicity. This piece, which reflects Shimizu Ichiji's many years of experience, has high artistic value due to the exquisite balance between the smooth finish of the white glaze and the ink painting. The lightness and moderate weight when held in the hand give the user comfort, while at the same time inspiring admiration for its delicate craftsmanship. This white-glazed sake cup not only enhances the flavor of sake, but also brings a special atmosphere to evening drinks and celebratory occasions. The beautiful pattern and shape will delight the user both visually and olfactoryly, and will become a treasured item that can be used for a long time.
Tamba-yaki sake vessels are the epitome of beauty and practicality, a perfect harmony between tradition with over a thousand years of history and modern sensibility. Each one is imbued with the accidental beauty created by the power of nature and the masterful technique of experienced artisans. Every time you pick one up, you can feel the natural warmth of the earth and fire, and it exudes a unique presence that captivates those who see it. From everyday use to special occasions, Tamba-yaki sake vessels will add a touch of color to any occasion, elevating the moment you sip sake to something special. Their profound appeal and durability that allows them to be used for a long time make them masterpieces that touch the hearts of those who use them, creating special moments that are healing and inspiring.