Powerful and vividly theatrical, this sake set (shuki) by Ichikawa Tōru is titled “Ma-ō” (Demon King), a reference to Oda Nobunaga, the formidable sixteenth-century warlord whose ferocity and ambition earned him the legendary epithet. Comprising a katakuchi pouring vessel and a matching cup, the set is shaped with dramatically compressed, almost armor-like forms that feel forged rather than thrown, their thick, irregular walls reinforcing the work’s commanding presence. The surfaces are dominated by a striking band of glossy black glaze overlaid with vivid yellow-green cellular patterns that spread like molten veins or reptilian scales across the body of the vessels, suggesting both organic growth and the intense chemistry of the kiln. These dynamic passages are framed by expanses of brilliant metallic luster—golden and bronze surfaces that appear to have pooled and solidified across the clay like molten metal—while the rims and edges of both vessels are similarly finished in gold, catching light and emphasizing their sculptural contours. The katakuchi’s spout projects sharply from the body, edged in gold and functioning almost like a blade or beak, adding to the aggressive visual energy suggested by the work’s title. Beneath these dramatic surfaces, darker textured passages retain a blistered quality that recalls the raw forces of fire responsible for their creation. Despite the bold sculptural treatment, the vessels remain fully functional for serving sake: the katakuchi measures approximately 15.8 × 10.3 × 12.1 cm (6 x 4 x 5 inches), while the accompanying cup measures 7.3 × 7.3 cm, (roughly 3 inches). Both are enclosed in the original wooden box and are in perfect condition, directly from the artist. Together an arresting tribute to the fierce historical spirit invoked by the title Ma-ō.
Ichikawa Toru was born in Tokyo in 1973. In 2015 he established his current studio in Bizen after 4 years of apprenticeship under another Bizen Outsider, Kakurezaki Ryuichi. He has since developed quite a following, with his shows selling out often within hours.
