Tokkuri / "Henko" Madaragaratsu sake carafe

Oblong Karatsu-yaki spotted "Tokkuri" sake carafe (madara) made by Munehiko Maruta (1961-), specialized in the old Karatsu style in Takéo, in Saga prefecture. Munehiko Maruta is a leading figure in the pursuit of modern Ko-Karatsu. He uses both anagama kilns (direct flame lying kiln) and climbing kilns, depending on the piece he wishes to make, and is very demanding regarding the clay and glaze used. Karatsu ceramics are characterized by its coarse clay texture, called "sunamé", and its austere colors, which express simplicity, warmth and strength. The flow of glaze and the finger marks made during glazing are also notable features. It is also said that Karatsu-yaki is pottery that improves with use: in fact, Karatsu ceramics are a work of art that is completed when the food is served. One of the charms of Karatsu ceramics is that the more it is used, the more the clay changes color and the more it has fine cracks on the surface, called "Kannyu", which increases its taste and beauty.