KIN-KAKI

Though not the best detail photo I have seen, the illustrated image is of a detail of a rich and eloquent Mashiko tsubo that I found while surfing the web. Made by Yoshikawa Mizuki (b. 1941) the thick and deep temmoku glaze is lusterous and a perfect backdrop for the painted branches, leaves and the golden persimmon that flank the upper shoulder of the pot. There is a stategically placed branch dropping down into the lower third of the piece with the low hanging fruit taking center stage at what should be considered the front or face of the jar. Together with the strong and decidedly Mashiko form, the combinations of overglazes, the subject matter and the choice of glazes have made for a wonderful pot that brings to mind many a trek through Japan where both fresh, sliced persimmon and hoshigaki could be found and enjoyed along the journey.