Ken Matsuzaki (松崎健), Japanese (b. 1950)

A Yakishime Yunomi (焼締湯呑)

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

About the work

A robust and expressive yakishime yunomi by celebrated Mashiko potter Ken
Matsuzaki, one of the foremost contemporary interpreters of Japan's folk craft
ceramic tradition. Thrown in a slightly tapering cylindrical form, the cup displays the
artist'ss characteristic appreciation for natural kiln effects and the beauty of fire-
transformed clay.

The surface is richly textured with warm orange and amber tones, accented by areas
of natural ash deposits and subtle speckling produced during firing. The unglazed
body reveals the earthy character of the clay while the softly vitrified surface retains a
tactile quality that invites handling. Variations in colour and texture create a
landscape-like appearance, embodying the spontaneity and vitality that define
Matsuzaki's work.
The interior displays a warm buff tone with gentle throwing marks, while the faceted
lower body and footring provide a pleasing sense of weight and balance in the hand.
Equally suitable for tea, coffee, or daily use, the piece exemplifies the artist's
commitment to creating functional ceramics infused with sculptural presence.
The yunomi is accompanied by its original signed wooden storage box (tomobako),
confirming its authenticity and provenance.

Dimensions

10cm(h) x 7.5cm(w)

Footnote

Ken Matsuzaki, born in 1950 in Tokyo, is a renowned ceramic artist trained at Tamagawa University's School of Fine Arts. After apprenticing under Tatsuzo Shimaoka in Mashiko, he established his kiln, Yuushin Gama. Known for blending traditional Shino, Oribe, and yohen glazes with modern aesthetics, his works are celebrated worldwide and included in prestigious collections such as the Metropolitan Museum of Art and the Victoria and Albert Museum.