Sangiri Gourd‐shaped Sake Set

This Bizen ware sake set, including a unique gourd-shaped tokkuri (sake carafe), features a pattern called sangiri. The coarse texture, exquisite colors, and patterns produced by the kiln's flames are remarkable examples of Bizen ware, celebrated as "the art of clay and fire."

The "san" in sangiri refers to the wall inside the kiln. The work placed on the side of the wall where ash tends to accumulate is covered with ash from the pine wood, and the part of the work not directly exposed to the fire reacts with the ash, turning it grayish brown or blackish brown. The uniqueness of each firing results in distinct patterns, ensuring that every piece is a one-of-a-kind work of art.

The microscopic pores inside Bizen ware mellow the flavors of sake and make the aroma more fragrant. This effect has been famous for centuries, leading to the saying  "second-grade sake becomes first-grade sake when sake is kept in a Bizen ware pot." 

Hozan Kiln

Hozan Kiln is a long-established Bizen ware kiln. Located in Imbe, Bizen City, the hometown of Bizen ware, Hozan Kiln is directly descended from the Six Families of Bizen ware potters. For centuries, it has continuously produced masterpieces of tea ceremony utensils, sake cups, and art pieces. The oldest-known piece to bear the fan-shaped ceramic stamp, or brand mark, the kiln still uses today is a large jar dating to the 16th century.

Bizen Ware

Bizen ware is a traditional stoneware produced in the Imbe area of Okayama Prefecture. It is one of the oldest ceramics in Japan, and is made using the yakishime technique, in which pieces are fired at high temperatures without glaze to make them durable and water-resistant.

Bizen ware is called "the art of clay and fire" for the exquisite colors and patterns produced by the kiln's flames, and is characterized by its minimalist, wabi sabi design.