CLASSICAL ARCHETYPE

Perched atop a lid, this enameled shishi stands guard, at the ready on this classically designed Kutani koro. This fantastically designed koro with the main feature of the shishi guardian is flanked by two stylized dragon handles while delicately balanced on three tall pillar-like legs and the entire piece is expertly overglazed in varying hues that the maker, Ningen Kokuho Tokuda Yasokichi III became synonymous with. This tripod koro was made early in Tokuda's career and is in fact signed with his earlier moniker, Masahiko and though a rather traditional piece it clearly shows the promise of the saiyu techniques that he is best known for. What is immediately evident despite the use of a classical archetype is that this is still a rather modern pot and was made with exacting precision with a lid that fits exceptionally well and despite the appendages it balance well on the tall legs. Despite the fragile looking nature of the piece, it is rather robust and sturdy and makes for an wonderfully functional koro though this particular one has never been used. Despite being made early in Tokuda Yasokichi's career, I suspect the original owners revered, even cherished this piece a bit too much and I hope this short slideshow conveys the charm and elegance of a koro perhaps just a bit too nice to use.