Wednesday, June 21, 2017

ONI-KOGO

Illustrated is a rather robust, large and visually serious kogo by Mashiko ceramic artist and sculptor, Fujiwara Ikuzo. Ikuzo is well known for his sculptural installations in ceramic and glass throughout Japan as well as for his highly animated wood fired Fudo, Bodhisatva and Oni sculptures and is probably best known for. This two piece Oni kogo was created in a press mold and then wood fired and separates at the intersection of the teeth with piercings at the eyes to allow the fragrance of the incense to escape the deadly grasp of the oni's mouth. I love the combinations of the softly curved features and the angularity of the horns, top, sides and back making for a rather unique twist on a simple and common theme in kogo among other objects.