Kenzan's Old Pine Tree Sake Cup by Kosai Miyagawa

Height: 7.5cm Width: 6.5cm

A conversation with Kosai Miyagawa

"Kenzan Copy Old Pine Tree Sake Cup by Miyagawa Kosai" is a copy of the style of Ogata Kenzan, a potter who is representative of Kyoto ware in the Edo period, and while inheriting Kenzan's aesthetic sense and techniques, modern potter Miyagawa Kosai has added his own unique interpretation. Kyoto ware is rooted in the rich culture and history of Kyoto, and Kenzan copies are an important element in reproducing and passing on traditional techniques in modern times.

Influenced by the Rinpa school, Ogata Kenzan produced many pottery pieces characterized by simple yet bold compositions. Kenzan's style was based on realism, and he excelled in expressing natural landscapes and flowers and trees in simple forms. While carrying on this tradition, Kenzan continues to produce contemporary pieces that incorporate his own unique approach. This sake cup is one example of a piece that combines classical and modern aesthetics.

Symbolic meaning and expression of old pine tree

The old pine tree depicted in this work is a very auspicious motif in Japanese culture, symbolizing immortality and longevity. Pine trees remain green all year round and live for thousands of years, symbolizing "eternal life." Pine, bamboo, and plum trees are also considered lucky objects in Japan, and pine trees in particular are often used in scenes celebrating "longevity" due to their powerful vitality.

In the vertically long screen of this sake cup, a portion of a large pine tree is depicted using the mokkotsu technique, which does not use outlines. The foreground features drooping branches and dense leaves, while the background features a thick, powerful trunk. This composition expresses the vitality and enduring spirit of the pine tree, providing visual enjoyment every time you pour yourself a cup of sake. The pale morning sun shining in the distance seems to symbolize the start of a new day and new hope as you drink sake.

Background of pine, bamboo, plum and other auspicious items

In Japan, the "Three Friends of Winter" - pine, bamboo, and plum - are traditionally considered lucky charms. These three plants symbolize eternal youth, longevity, prosperity, and perseverance, respectively. The pine in particular remains green even in the harsh winter environment, and has long been revered as a tree symbolizing vitality and longevity.

The "Three Friends of Winter" first appeared as an artistic motif during the Song Dynasty in China, and after being introduced to Japan, it became widely known during the Edo period. In the Edo period, sushi restaurants used "pine, bamboo, and plum" to classify items, which is one of the reasons they are still used for luxury items and celebratory occasions today. When you understand the cultural background of the pine as a lucky charm, the meaning of the old pine depicted on this sake cup is deepened even further, and you can see that it is not just decorative, but is imbued with a meaning as a symbol of longevity and prosperity.

The appeal of Miyagawa Kosai's techniques and straw ash glaze

The Miyagawa Kosai family is a distinguished family of potters that has been around since the Edo period, and they have continued to preserve the traditional techniques of Kyoto ware. Among these, the "straw ash glaze" is a unique glaze that has been passed down through the Miyagawa family for generations, and is characterized by the soft, warm surface of the ware that it creates. The color of the straw ash glaze changes subtly depending on the clay used and the firing method, and it can show a variety of expressions, such as bluish or reddish.

This glaze gives the entire sake cup a mellow and elegant luster, giving the vessel a sense of elegance. Straw ash glaze was once used by Nonomura Ninsei, the founder of Kyoto ware, and the technique has been passed down to the present day, bringing a unique texture to the works of the Miyagawa Kosai family. This sake cup is one example of this, with a wonderful harmony between the strength of the pine and the softness of the glaze.

The history of the Miyagawa family and Makuzu ware

The Miyagawa family is a distinguished family of potters that has been around since the Edo period, with a history spanning more than 330 years. Makuzu ware is a branch of Kyoto ware made by the Miyagawa family, and is highly regarded both in Japan and overseas for its unique techniques and designs. While inheriting the traditions of Makuzu ware, they continue to produce mainly Sencha utensils and tea ceremony utensils. Makuzu ware is characterized by its delicate depiction and bold design, and is particularly outstanding in its use of glazes and color expression. This sake cup is also a work that beautifully combines tradition and innovation, and knowing its historical background will make it even more enjoyable. "Kenzan Copy Old Pine Tree Sake Cup Miyagawa Kosai" is a work that brings together the traditions of Kyoto ware and the techniques of the Miyagawa Kosai family, and features a powerful depiction of the auspicious motif of pine trees. This sake cup is not just a vessel for drinking sake, but can be enjoyed as a work of art that contains seasonal and auspicious meanings. This is a piece that you can enjoy holding in your hands, as you slowly gaze upon the pine tree painted on the vessel and reflect on the traditional beauty of Japan.