Harada Shuroku (原田拾六), Japanese, b. 1941

A Set of Five Bizen Chopstick Rests (備前箸置 五客)

Heisei Era (1989-2019)

About the work

This set of five Bizen chopstick rests by Harada Shuroku demonstrates the artist’s sculptural sensitivity applied to everyday utensils. Each rest is shaped to resemble a short, cut segment of a bamboo branch, with slightly swelling nodes and uneven ends that recall natural growth rather than mechanical repetition. Though similar in size and form, no two pieces are exactly alike, giving the set a quiet rhythm when arranged together.

The unglazed surfaces reveal the full character of wood fired Bizen clay. Warm reddish tones blend with ash gray and darker fire marked areas, while subtle ash deposits and granular textures trace the path of flame through the kiln. These natural effects enhance the bamboo like imagery and reinforce the connection to organic materials.

Both functional and sculptural, the rests provide stable support for chopsticks while serving as small objects of visual interest. The set is accompanied by its original wooden storage box and leaflet.

Dimensions

1.2cm(h) x 7cm(w) each

Footnote

Harada Shuroku, born in Okayama in 1941, first pursued agricultural studies at Meiji University before rediscovering the appeal of the Bizen ceramics he had known since childhood. After returning home, he established a small anagama kiln in Imbe in 1971, followed by a noborigama in 1972. His encounter Bizen scholar Katsura Matasaburo in 1975 deepened his study of Momoyama-period Bizen, leading him to investigate historic kiln sites and clay traditions. In 1991 he built another anagama at Ushimado’s Amida Mountain. Recognized for his dedication, he received the Japan Ceramic Society Award in 2000.