Shuten Geppakuyu Nagashi by Shohaku Matsubayashi XVI

Width: 5.8cm　Height: 5.0cm　

The diverse expressions of faceted surfaces woven by white slip and Gesshakuyu glaze

"Sake Cup: Gesshakuyu Nagashi" is a unique work created by Toyosai Matsubayashi, charming with the delicate hues born from the application of white slip and Gesshakuyu glaze, and the crimson color fired in a climbing kiln, which reveal various expressions depending on the viewing angle. The faceted sake cup offers a different impression with each change of angle, as subtle crimson melts into the tranquil white, bringing forth natural changes and profound landscapes.

The natural flow of glaze drawn with a ladle

The unique scenery of this work is created by allowing the glaze to flow naturally using a ladle. When applying the glaze, the emphasis is on an unrestrained, natural flow, and this random beauty is the greatest characteristic of this sake cup. Rather than using the "stopping technique" typically employed to control glaze, the work allows for a natural flow, resulting in a piece where the power of nature and the artist's intention merge.

A new challenge through the fusion of different techniques

However, in this "Gesshakuyu Nagashi," Toyosai Matsubayashi deliberately combines the "stopping technique" and the "flowing technique" to challenge himself to create a new beauty unlike anything before. The fusion of these two techniques creates a subtle sense of incongruity and asymmetry within the natural flow, and this contrast forms a new harmony. The moments where the glaze stops and continues intertwine complexly, expressing a dynamic beauty in the faceted surfaces, much like a landscape painting.

Unique texture created by the偶然性 of firing

During firing, the serendipity inherent to the climbing kiln adds to the unique texture and scenery created by the natural dripping of the glaze, further enhancing the charm of this sake cup. The poured glaze moves during firing, forming flowing patterns as if a landscape painting is being drawn. This fusion of serendipity and intentional technique creates a complex scenery that draws the viewer in.

Expansion of creativity and new discoveries

This "Gesshakuyu Nagashi" sake cup is a work born from Toyosai Matsubayashi's spirit of inquiry, and it teaches us that by incorporating and devising various techniques, a new world previously unseen can unfold. The challenge of creating new discoveries by combining different techniques while emphasizing natural flow brings fresh vitality to the entire work. With each use, its depth and changes can be enjoyed, constantly captivating the observer.

Tradition and innovation of Asahiyaki

This is an innovative work rooted in the more than 400-year history of Asahiyaki tradition, yet infused with contemporary sensibility and technique. Asahiyaki has continued to produce tea ceremony utensils embodying the aesthetic of "kirei-sabi" under the guidance of Enshu Kobori during the Keicho era. This work also follows that tradition while pursuing new beauty with a modern sensibility, with the combination of Gesshakuyu glaze and crimson particularly breathing new life into the piece.

Innovation and challenge

Toyosai Matsubayashi, who succeeded as the 16th generation in 2016, continues to create new works with a contemporary approach while preserving the traditions of Asahiyaki. Challenging works like the Gesshakuyu Nagashi are highly praised overseas, and his works have been exhibited in the UK and France. His innovation and challenges are greatly contributing to the further development of Asahiyaki, and his works will continue to inspire many people. This work is a harmonious blend of innovation and tradition by Toyosai Matsubayashi. The natural scenery created by the flowing glaze and the accidental beauty fired in the climbing kiln merge, offering new discoveries with each use. This work, which incorporates modern sensibilities into traditional Asahiyaki techniques, not only makes sake taste delicious but also allows us to re-experience the beauty of Japanese pottery.

Toyosai Matsubayashi XVI

Born in Uji City, Kyoto Prefecture in 1980, as the eldest son of Toyosai Matsubayashi XV. He learned pottery wheel techniques at the Kyoto Prefectural Ceramics Advanced Technical School and trained under his father. In 2015, he stayed and worked at the Leach Pottery in St Ives, England, and the following year, 2016, he succeeded to the name Toyosai XVI of Asahiyaki.

Based on the Asahiyaki tradition, which has been handed down in Uji for over 400 years since the Keicho era, and the aesthetic of "kirei-sabi" of tea master Enshu Kobori, he produces tea ceramics such as tea bowls, tea caddies, water jars, and flower vases. While inheriting the traditional Kashima and Benikashima of Asahiyaki, he has established the "Gesshakuyu Nagashi," a flowing pale blue-white glaze, as his own unique style. Utilizing the expression of Uji clay and precise pottery wheel techniques, he incorporates gold and silver decoration and new forms, presenting works that harmonize tradition and modernity.

In addition to holding solo exhibitions throughout Japan, he has also exhibited his works overseas in London, Paris, New York, Taiwan, and Shanghai. His works are housed in the National Museum Wales. In 2020, he held a solo exhibition at Nonaka-Hill Gallery in Los Angeles, and in 2023, he participated in "Leaping Creators" at the Kyoto City Kyocera Museum of Art. In 2026, he will celebrate the tenth anniversary of his succession with commemorative tea ceremony exhibitions at Nihonbashi Mitsukoshi Main Store and Kyoto Takashimaya.