JUST THE RIGHT SPOT

As I look at the photo(s) of this wood fired jars, I am immediately reminded of the various Sueki jars I saw in various museums during the trips we made to Japan. This jar has that just fired look, fresh and spirited having survived the firing intact and with ash and hiiro painting the piece which has raised horizontal ridges and is further narrated by small feldspar and stones punctuating the surface. Beyond the Sueki look it is clear there are hints of Shimaoka Tatsuzo in this piece that was coil and thrown by Matsuzaki Ken in 2007 for an exhibition at the Keio Department Store in Shinjuku where this tsubo is illustrated in the accompanying catalogue. Forgoing glazing this pot, Matsuzaki choose to fire this in a strategic location in the kiln producing this haikaburi, shizen-yu effect like medieval jars of old though there is no escaping the various details that make this a modern tsubo. Perhaps the most defining detail of this jar is the proud and strong neck and mouth that finish the pot creating a rather strong appearance and presence, perfect for use or just out on display in just the right spot.