Description
This small handmade Katakuchi vessel was fired in an Anagama wood kiln. Its rounded, relatively deep body is complemented by a small pouring lip formed on one side and a raised foot that gives the vessel stability.
Katakuchi (片口) is a traditional Japanese vessel whose name literally means “one-sided mouth”: kata (片) means “one side,” while kuchi (口) means “mouth” or “opening.” Its defining feature is a pouring lip or spout formed on one side of the vessel, allowing liquids to be poured neatly and with control.
In Japan, Katakuchi vessels have traditionally served a wide range of purposes. They are used for pouring sake and for serving sauces, dressings, broths and condiments. Larger Katakuchi vessels may also be used for whisking Matcha before pouring it into smaller cups. The compact size of this particular piece makes it especially suitable for sake, sauces, dressings and other small servings.
During the Anagama firing, the surface developed deep brown, charcoal and near-black tones, accompanied by warmer golden ash markings around the rim. Ash and glaze accumulated unevenly, creating subtle changes in colour, sheen and texture around the vessel.
The small pouring lip is both the defining feature of the Katakuchi form and a practical detail for controlled pouring. The vessel can be used at the table, as part of a tea or sake ritual, or displayed as a small ceramic object.
Height: 7 cm
Diameter 10 cm
Form: Katakuchi
Firing: Anagama wood firing
Use: sake, sauces, dressings, condiments and small servings
Artist – Beatričė Kelerienė
