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

A Bizen Tokkuri (備前徳利)

Showa Era (1926-1989), Heisei Era (1989-2019) or Reiwa Era (2019 – present)

About the work

This Bizen tokkuri by Harada Shuroku presents a richly atmospheric surface shaped entirely by the long, intense firing of the traditional anagama kiln. The form is compact and gently rounded, rising to a slightly flared mouth that gives the piece a poised, upright presence. Across the surface, natural ash deposits, feldspathic drips, and scorched earthen reds appear in organic transitions, creating a layered topography of flame-induced effects. Pale flashing, granular textures, and vitrified patches testify to the work’s placement within the kiln and the severity of the firing.

The piece shows Shuroku’s characteristic emphasis on unglazed clay, allowing mineral content and fire action to determine both color and texture. The base is cleanly finished and bears his mark. The tokkuri is housed in its original signed tomobako.

Dimensions

13.8cm(h) x 9.2cm(w)

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.