Fumio Kawabata (川端文男), Japanese, b.1948

A Bizen Hexagonal Tokkuri (備前自然練込六角徳利)

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

About the work

An exceptional hexagonal tokkuri (sake flask) by Fumio Kawabata, crafted in the Bizen ware tradition. This piece exemplifies the artist’s innovative use of natural nerikomi (marbled clay mixing), resulting in a dynamic and organic surface pattern unique to each angle of the vessel.

Formed with six distinct facets, the tokkuri displays a bold interplay of earthy textures and reddish fire markings, achieved through traditional firing without glaze. Its narrow neck and broad shoulders evoke strength and balance, offering both functional elegance and sculptural presence.

The tokkuri comes housed in its original tomobako (signed wooden box), with a protective cloth and artist leaflet, making it a valuable addition for collectors and connoisseurs of Bizen ceramics.

Dimensions

13.6cm(h) x 8.5cm(w) x 8.5cm(d)

Footnote

Fumio Kawabata, a Yokohama native, uniquely contributes to Bizen pottery by incorporating his own distinct style. Awarded the Grand Prize at the Modern Tea Forms Exhibition at the Tanabe Museum of Art, he has also been honored with several prestigious recognitions, including the Japanese Traditional Craft Art Exhibition, Chunichi International Exhibition of Ceramic Arts, and Chanoyu Zokei (Modern Tea Forms) Exhibition. His works are known for their distinctive creativity and fresh interpretations of Bizen aesthetics.