Bizen Sake Cup

This is a Bizen sake cup by Kei Fujiwara, an artist beloved by all for his bold, open-hearted style that radiates warmth and kindness. It features the gentle, refined aesthetic of *hi-dasuki* (fire-cord) patterns created in a climbing kiln, with a magnificent orange hue reminiscent of a sunset reflecting over Katakami Bay. Reflecting the character of Fujiwara, a man who loved sake all his life, the piece exudes a sense of generosity; while every detail is meticulously crafted, it feels completely relaxed and inviting to use. The tall foot and undulating rim make it remarkably practical, and its silhouette is a pleasure to behold. Includes signed wooden box (shiho-san style)
Diameter 6.7cm × Diameter 6.6cm × Height 5.8cm Kei Fujiwara (1899–1983, born in Bizen City, Okayama Prefecture) entered the world of Bizen pottery at the suggestion of Atsuo Masamune, a scholar of Japanese literature living in Honami, Bizen. He learned wheel-throwing techniques from Baikai Mimura, and from 1941, he honed his skills further by studying firing methods under fellow Living National Treasure Toyo Kaneshige. Inspired by the rustic simplicity and boldness of Kamakura and Muromachi period folk crafts, he created vases and flower vessels characterized by a clear, expansive style. The artistic cultivation he absorbed in his youth greatly influenced his work. In 1954, he became the second individual to be designated a Living National Treasure for Bizen pottery, and in 1958, he became a director of the Japan Kōgei Association. In 1977, he established the Kei Fujiwara Memorial Museum in Bizen City, Okayama Prefecture.
Major awards: Okayama Prefecture Cultural Award, Sanyo Shimbun Award, Chugoku Cultural Award; Honorary Citizen of Bizen City, Honorary Citizen of Okayama Prefecture; posthumously awarded the Order of the Sacred Treasure, Third Class.