Vintage Tokoname Guinomi, Yamashita Toshiaki, Rakushichi, Sake Cup, Choko, Guinomi, Ceramic, Unused,
Tokoname ware is produced on the Chita Peninsula in Aichi Prefecture. Tokoname kilns began producing unglazed earthenware toward the end of the Heian period. Everyday wares such as Yama Chawan, lipped bowls, pots, and jars were distributed across eastern and western Japan. From the latter half of the Edo period, Tokoname kilns also produced tea utensils. – Adapted from A Dictionary of Japanese Art Terms
Yamashita Toshiaki
Yamashita Toshiaki is a ceramic artist from Tokoname, one of Japan’s historic pottery centers. His artist name, “Rakushichi”, combines the character “七” (shichi), originating from his family’s traditional shop name “Shichiro,” and the character “楽” (raku), referring to the Raku ware. His works are signed with the seal “楽七” (Rakushichi).
He is the second-generation Rakushichi, succeeding his father, Yamashita Masao (the first Rakushichi), who passed away in 1994.
Born in 1944 into a kiln-owning family in Tokoname, Yamashita studied pottery under his father, who specialized in tea ceramics. In 1973, he built an anagama (wood-fired tunnel kiln) in Okujo-Shinchi, Tokoname. He later relocated and rebuilt his kiln in Nakane, Tokoname, in 1978.
After the passing of his father in 1994, he inherited the title of the second-generation Rakushichi.
Yamashita’s work has been recognized in exhibitions such as the “Chozasyo Contemporary Ceramic Art Exhibition”, reflecting both the deep traditions of Tokoname ware and his own distinctive artistic style.
It comes with its Tomobako (original signed paulownia box) and Tomonuno (original artist-stamped cloth).
We acquired it from a friend.
There are no visible signs of use.
Measurement
Diameter: 5.7cm / Approx. 2 1/4”
Height: 4cm / Approx. 1 37/64”
Thickness: 0.3cm / Approx. 1/8″
Weight: 53g
Age: 1994-
Material: Pottery
Color: Tokoname Light Olive Green, Leghorn, Biscuit, Beige, Lamp Black
Technique: Tokoname Rokuro
Glaze: Glass Glaze
Surface Features: Ishihaze, Pinholes
Condition: Excellent vintage condition consistent with age. (Unused)
* Kannyu (fine crackle lines in the glaze) is visible on the surface.
* Tomobako (original signed paulownia box).
* Tomonuno (original artist-stamped cloth)
* Inscription (Refer to No. 9 photo)
* No chips, cracks, scratches, or visible blemishes.
* Stone bursts and pinholes.
* For this piece, instead of using the 楽七 seal, the character ‘七’ (seven) of 楽七 is hand-carved. (Refer to No. 8 photo)
* Light discoloration on the box and cloth due to long-term storage. (Refer to No. 10 photo)
* Light scratches on the box. (Refer to No. 10 photo)
* The base of the piece comes into contact with surfaces, so minor contact marks may be present.
If you have any questions about the condition or would like additional photos, please contact us before purchasing.
