Yuu Okada is the 8th generation master potter of his family kiln in Hagi, on the northern coast of Japan’s Yamaguchi prefecture.

The Okada pottery was established in 1782, and the multi-chambered climbing kiln still used today by Yuu Okada and his son, dates from this period. This makes it one of the oldest working kilns in Hagi.

While it retains the classic tenets of Hagi-ware, the work of Yuu Okada chronicles his own journey in ceramics.

This piece is a katakuchi, a pouring vessel for sake. It was shaped on the wheel by Okada, and the kohiki (white slip and transparent glaze) adornment is punctuated by the biwa (loquat) coloured blotches distinctive of Hagi.

The base of the piece reveals the red clay mixture used for centuries in Hagi-ware.

All good master potters also practice calligraphy, and the accompanying wooden box for the piece is decorated by Okada himself. It reads Hagi Kohiki Katakuchi Shuki - in other words a Hagi vessel for sake completed in the kohiki style. It is signed 8th generation Okada Yuu. Okada’s pottery mark is found on the box, and on the base of the piece.

The piece is 12cm high, and 14.5cm wide at its widest point. It weighs 320g.