This is a refined sake set from the late Showa era, created by ToShoen, a prestigious kiln in Bizen City, Okayama Prefecture. ■ This work is a masterpiece crafted by the skilled artist Toshimasa Kimura (1929-), from ToShoen, a renowned kiln that carries on the legacy of the "Bizen To-Rokushou," the six families who have supported the history of Bizen ware. ・Beauty of Form: The tokkuri (sake bottle) features a charming and elegant shape known as "Hato-Tokkuri" (pigeon tokkuri), resembling a pigeon puffing out its chest. The curves that fit comfortably in the hand showcase the craftsman's impeccable skill. ・Beauty of Scenery: The surface of the vessels displays the "goma" (sesame) effect, a hallmark of Bizen ware. This is created when the ash from pine firewood melts at high temperatures in the kiln, forming a natural glaze, a natural art that cannot be artificially replicated. ・Practicality: Bizen ware is said to "mellow sake" due to the fine air bubbles within, and has been beloved by sake drinkers for ages. This set includes two tokkuri and five guinomi (sake cups), making it perfect for gatherings with couples or friends. However, as this is a new item but old, there are some signs of aging. We recommend displaying it as an ornament. ■ About the Artist and Kiln ・Kiln: ToShoen Founded in 1913 (Taisho 2) as a branch from Kimura Souhonke, it is a venerable kiln that was granted the privilege of being a "potter" by the former Bizen feudal lord, the Ikeda family. ・Artist: Toshimasa Kimura (Art Name: ToSho) Born in 1929. Known for his meticulous style that respects tradition while considering the user, he is a veteran artist who produced many masterpieces from the Showa to Heisei eras. ■ Age and Condition Based on the description on the bookmark and the texture of the paper, it is estimated to be a work from the 1970s to 1980s (around Showa 45-60). It is an unused item that has been carefully stored for a long time. The accompanying box (paulownia wood box) has a patina from age, telling the story of the work's history. ■ Set Contents ・Tokkuri (Hato-Tokkuri): 2 ・Guinomi (Sake Cups): 5 ・Accessories: Matching box (paulownia wood box), artist bookmark ■ Shipping As this is a valuable traditional craft, we will carefully pack it with cushioning material to prevent breakage or chipping. #BizenWare #ToShoen #ToshimasaKimura #SakeSet #HatoTokkuri #Guinomi #RareItem #TraditionalCraft #OkayamaPrefecture #JapaneseSake #Ceramics #Art #Practicality #BeautyOfForm #NaturalArt #HistoricalKiln #Craftsmanship #ShowaRetro #StylishVessels #Gift #Collection #SpiritOfJapan #JapaneseTradition #DrinkingParty #Gathering #Luxury