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Special Works 2 |
| No.151 Anjin ABE Bizen Mizusashi SOLD |
| Size W21-H21 1,050,000 Yen Double woodbox |
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| Anjin ABE Biography |
| In these days when ceramic artists tend to be evaluated in overly standardized
ways, I think it is important to look carefully at the evolution of a potter's
individual style and unique personality in their work. Having learned much
from the traditions of Old Bizen, Anjin Abe has strived over the past several
years to establish his own style, a style which fully deserves to be called
"Abe Bizen." Abe's work has often been compared to Old Bizen,
and has been highly evaluated in this light. Although, on one hand, this
praise is well deserved, on the other hand, such an evaluation may have
slowed the establishment and wide-spread critical acclamation of "Abe
Bizen."I strongly feel "Abe Bizen" in this water jar. This
piece was fired repeatedly, a technique that can also be witnessed in superior
works of Old Bizen. Its solid weight and touch makes me think it is made
of iron, rather than clay. The color can be said to be Abe's original;
such color cannot be found in other works, either of the past or the present.
The front is grey with a patch of red whereas the back is red with a patch
of gray; turning this piece around, we can experience a range of unique
feelings. The outstanding firing and color, the overall shape and well-balanced
"ears" all come together to make this a truly special work.In
2004, three of Anjin Abe's water jars were collected by the Metropolitan
Museum of Art in New York City. Taijiro ITO Bizen Gallery Aoyama |
| Cooperation;English translation R.M. |
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