Sake Vessel

Item

Title

Sake Vessel

Creator

Unknown artist
Japanese, 20th century

Date

1967

Materials

Naeshirogawa stoneware

Measurements

5-1/4 x 5-1/2 x 6 in. (13.4 x 14 x 15.3 cm)

Description

This sturdy sake vessel, made from the rich, brown clay native to the Naeshirogawa area, combines function with aesthetic and cultural values. The deep, black glaze was likely applied by turning the container upside down and dipping it directly into the glaze, creating a smooth texture and leaving the base bare.

Although sake is often served cold, this vessel could be used in the preparation of hot sake. The kettle shape 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

86.353

Rights

This image is posted publicly for non-profit educational uses, excluding printed publication. Other uses are not permitted.

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