Bizen sake cup

This is a Bizen sake cup by Kosuke Kaneshige, leader of the Kaneshige family and son of the late Living National Treasure Toyo Kaneshige, who is credited with the great revival of Bizen ware. This is a top-tier piece that showcases a striking red *nuke* (area of clear glaze/color) that could arguably be described as the ultimate in kiln-altered effects. The large, sweeping wheel marks in the interior indicate a highly dynamic throwing process. Perhaps reflecting that energy, the piece is somewhat large, with wheel marks preserved around the midsection to emphasize a sense of motion. In contrast to the body, the rim curves slightly inward, suddenly bringing the intense form to a focal point and pulling the entire work together; in this, we see a glimpse of Kosuke's sharp sense of form. (The accompanying catalog/bookmark is from after his certification as an Okayama Prefecture Designated Important Intangible Cultural Property holder.) Signed wooden box (shiho-san style)
Diameter 7.2cm x Diameter 6.8cm x Height 5.2cm Kosuke Kaneshige is the third son of Living National Treasure Toyo Kaneshige. He graduated from the Department of Sculpture at Tokyo University of the Arts in 1968 and completed his graduate studies in sculpture there in 1970. He began presenting his ceramic works in 1975, and after serving as a lecturer at Tokai University, he returned to his hometown in 1977. He built his own climbing kiln in 1982. He produces sculptures, tea ware, flower vases, tableware, and sake vessels. In 1991, he created the ceramic mural "Light and Wind" for the Yasuda Fire and Marine Insurance Building in Okayama. He received the Japan Ceramic Society Award in 1994. In 1997, his work was exhibited at the Bizen Ware Paris Exhibition. He holds solo exhibitions in Tokyo, Osaka, and various other locations. In 2012, he was certified as an Okayama Prefecture Designated Important Intangible Cultural Property holder.