Ibe Cup

This Ibe-ware sake cup is the work of Iwao Kaneshige, who was born and raised in the prestigious Kaneshige family and continues to diligently refine his craft in the kiln passed down through generations from the great Toyo Kaneshige and Michiaki Kaneshige. Amidst a long and continuous lineage, this piece still possesses the rustic and poetic atmosphere that is uniquely characteristic of Iwao-sensei. It is entirely devoid of kiln-altered glaze, as if appealing for the clay itself to be appreciated. By eschewing an artistic style that relies on ornamentation, the gentle, lingering aura of the artist that remains is truly emblematic of Iwao-sensei. Signed wooden box (shiho-san) included
Diameter 7.9cm × Diameter 7.4cm × Height 3.7cm Iwao Kaneshige is the eldest son of Michiaki Kaneshige. Born and raised in a family of Bizen-ware potters, he followed the path of pottery himself out of a love for the craft. After honing his skills under the guidance of the Kaneshige family, he became independent in 1995 and held his first solo exhibition at a gallery in Okayama. He has also exhibited in the Kaneshige Family Exhibitions in 1999 and 2001.