Accessories
Inner box: Black lacquered box with iron-painted Tang-style scroll design and makie decoration; same lid with circular window and interior painting of pine flowers by Matsukado; outer box with Tang-style wickerwork and metal fittings.
Provenance
Osaka Tennojiya Gohei—Kashimaya Hirooka family—Eisaka Mitsui family (June 1928)
Catalog
Written by Toda Ryugin, “Gakushu Collection,” “Tea Bowl Appraisal Book,” “Appraisal Notes,” “Tea Utensil Appraisal Notes,” written by Kikunoya Hikojiro, “Idle Window Miscellany,” “Taisho Famous Utensils Guide”
Dimensions
Height: 8.5 cm, Mouth diameter: 13.0–13.5 cm, Foot diameter: 5.9 cm, Same height: 1.8 cm, Weight: 340 g
Momiji Goki is the most prized of all Goki, but this tea bowl, originally from the Kajiya Hirooka family in Osaka and later passed down to the Chikusa-ya Hirase family, is renowned alongside the Kikugetsu from the same lineage as the twin masterpieces of Momiji Goki.
The essence of Momiji Goki lies in its subtle reddish hue, and this tea bowl is no exception. The overall color is beautifully pale red, with hints of blue from the firing, giving it a profound tea-drinking ambiance. The exterior features finger marks from the glazing process and the so-called “glaze removal,” which create a natural, unforced beauty, adding to its charm. The rim also has fire marks, further enhancing its appeal. In terms of its elegant form, it is unparalleled, and it is considered the finest among Momiji Goki. The strong, high foot adds a dignified charm. It is truly a masterpiece with no flaws in either form or appearance.
