hibiki Ishiguro glazed floating sake bottle, made by Naosaku

Ishiguro-Yu Floating Sake Bottle - Made by Masamoto Naosaku

Height 17.3 cm x diameter 9.3 cm

1. The brilliance of the Ishiguro glaze reflects the depths of space

The black lacquer-like glaze surface is slowly enveloped by the reducing flame of the climbing kiln, giving it a mirror-like luster. With each light it fluctuates from black ink to a dull purple, softly reflecting the lights of the drinking party and the surrounding scenery. This fluctuation is the greatest attraction of Ishiguro glaze, and it evokes a deep sense of emotion hidden deep within its tranquility.

2. The name Uki Tokkuri indicates its "functional beauty"

The unique shape of the cup, with a plump, upright lower body rather than a narrow one, creates a slight convection inside when sake is poured, resulting in a rich aroma. The gentle curve around the spout provides a comfortable grip, and the cup is easy to hold. At just over 17 cm tall, it is easy to store and can be used for a wide range of occasions, from evening drinks to formal parties.

3. The silky smoothness you can feel

When you pick it up, you'll be amazed at how smooth it feels on your fingers. This is because polishing after glazing is kept to a minimum, taking advantage of the luster created by the natural melting of the reducing flame. The iron from the clay dissolves in the glaze, giving it a moist, lustrous sheen that is luxuriously satisfying even to the touch.

4. Why Ishiguro glaze makes sake look beautiful

The moment the clear sake is poured onto the jet-black surface, the liquid takes on a deep glow like a starry sky. The black background accentuates the color, viscosity, and foam of the sake, making it an excellent visual indicator for sake tasting. Furthermore, the minute irregularities on the glaze surface slow down temperature changes, which is expected to help preserve the sake's aroma and flavor for longer.

5. Direct production kilns linking tradition and innovation

Naosaku Kiln, led by Masamoto Naosaku, boasts one of the oldest kilns in the Tanba region, and has continued to maintain the tradition of wood-fired kilns. This piece builds on the results of research into the classic Ishiguro glaze, while pursuing a lightness that is in keeping with modern lifestyles. The eight-sided chamfered design on the body is a modern reinterpretation of the traditional "sakusetsu" technique, creating a visual rhythm.

6. Care and Nurturing

After use, rinse lightly with lukewarm water, wipe off moisture with a soft cloth and dry in the shade.

If you use detergent, use only a small amount of neutral detergent and avoid strong abrasives.

The more you use it, the more the glaze will soften and mature into a deeper black. This change over time is the true joy of handmade pottery.

The deep luster of the Ishiguro glaze, the smoothness that clings to the palm of your hand, and the functional beauty of the floating sake bottle... This sake bottle, created by Naosaku Masamoto, will evoke a quiet emotion every time you pour sake, elevating even your ordinary evening drink to a special moment. We hope you will enjoy using it and let its flavor deepen over time.