Soliflore Bizen pottery sculpture from Mori Taiga, Japan

Soliflore made by artist mori taiga in bizen, japan. We recognize the initial shape of the fresh clay stretched then lightly screwed and the clear hand movement to slice the material and release its edges like the thorns of a rosebush. The final result is particularly glazed with quite contrasting shades ranging from gray to reddish. The vase was pierced for use as a soliflore. Mori taiga was born in 1974 in inbe in the commune of bizen and took over the kiln (fuurai) from his grandfather, himself from a long family tradition of potters in bizen. Taiga san has exhibited his works throughout the world and participated in the construction of an anagama kiln in france at the ecomusée la tuilerie in pouligny. Bizen pottery in japan made from the kamakura period (1185-1338) is characterized by its reddish brown color as well as a deposit of ashes covering it, reminiscent of goma or sesame seeds. Later they became very popular for their superb quality clay, their modest appearance, their resistance and their ability to preserve water quality. During the momoyama period (1573-1600) a gigantic kiln 50m long by 5m wide was erected in bizen and it was during this period that the masterpieces of pottery for the tea ceremony were created. The pieces of bizen pottery are placed without glaze in a pine wood kiln for periods of 8 to 20 days. When the temperature reaches 1250°c, pine wood ashes fall on the pieces and cover them with a natural enamel and in different shades on each piece. Those that have been fired under optimal conditions have a robust and heavy appearance with a natural texture and a very sober elegance. Bizen pottery is said to be modest and discreet but full of refinement, like japan. Bizen commune is located in okayama prefecture and the clay collected from the rice fields of the commune.

Ref. : J45P4AUH