Sake Vessel
Item
Title
Sake Vessel
Creator
Unknown artist
Japanese, 20th century
Japanese, 20th century
Date
1967
Materials
Naeshirogawa stoneware
Measurements
5-13/16 x 3-3/4 in. (14.5 x 9.6 cm)
Description
These sturdy sake vessels, made from the rich, brown clay native to the Naeshirogawa area, combine function with aesthetic and cultural values. The deep, black glaze was likely applied by turning the containers upside down and dipping them directly into the glaze, creating a smooth texture and leaving the bases bare.
Although sake is often served cold, these vessels could be used in the preparation of hot sake. The kettle shape of the smaller gives it a distinctive look and serves a functional purpose. The extra surface area provided by the flat body allows the sake to be heated efficiently by setting the vessel into hot water or ash. Bent branches create a natural, heat-resistant handle, formed by soaking branches in water until they became pliable, and then working them into the bowed shape seen here.
Although sake is often served cold, these vessels could be used in the preparation of hot sake. The kettle shape of the smaller gives it a distinctive look and serves a functional purpose. The extra surface area provided by the flat body allows the sake to be heated efficiently by setting the vessel into hot water or ash. Bent branches create a natural, heat-resistant handle, formed by soaking branches in water until they became pliable, and then working them into the bowed shape seen here.
Source
Palmer Museum of Art, The Pennsylvania State University.
Identifier
86.355
Rights
This image is posted publicly for non-profit educational uses, excluding printed publication. Other uses are not permitted.