Taku Mamoru (多久守), Japanese, b. 1952

A Bizen Tokkuri (備前徳利)

Heisei Era (1989-2019) or Reiwa Era (2019 – present)

About the work

This Bizen ware tokkuri by Taku Mamoru embodies the austere beauty and natural firing effects characteristic of traditional Bizen ceramics. The vessel has a robust, slightly rounded body rising to a short cylindrical neck and gently flared mouth, creating a balanced and functional form suited for serving sake.

The surface reveals the distinctive results of high-temperature wood firing. A rich gradient of earthy browns and deep charcoal tones is overlaid with a striking band of golden-yellow ash deposit flowing diagonally across the body. These natural kiln effects are created through the interaction of flame, ash, and clay during extended wood firing, producing surfaces that are entirely unique to each piece. The unglazed stoneware retains the tactile qualities of Bizen clay, emphasizing both material strength and the quiet beauty of natural kiln transformation.

The tokkuri is accompanied by its original signed wooden storage box (tomobako), cloth, and descriptive leaflet, confirming authenticity and careful preservation.

Dimensions

18cm(h) x 10cm(w)

Footnote

Taku Mamoru (多久守), born in Okayama in 1952, is a Bizen ceramic artist known for his dedication to traditional wood-fired techniques. He entered the field of ceramics in 1982, studying under Bizen potter Kimura Takaaki. The following year he built a climbing kiln in Saeki, Okayama, producing his first firing. In 1998 he constructed a semi-underground anagama kiln in Takebe, where he continues to work primarily with wood firing. Taku has exhibited widely, including multiple selections to the Japan Traditional Crafts Exhibition. His awards include the Grand Prize at the 15th Okayama Arts and Culture Awards and the top prize at the Tanabe Museum’s “Forms of Tea Ceremony” exhibition. He has also held numerous solo exhibitions across Japan.