Bizen Sake Cup

This is a Bizen ware sake cup by Living National Treasure Yu Fujiwara, who expanded his vision not only within Japan but to the entire world, widely conveying the appeal of Bizen ware. The shiso-red color, like aged wine, takes on a golden scenery that resembles rising steam, radiating an even more alluring luster. The yellow sesame glaze, positioned at key points like stepping stones in shallow water, is well-fired and pairs perfectly with the red-wine complexion of the piece. His motto of "simplicity and clarity," a refreshing declaration of resolve in the unforgiving craft of Bizen ware, serves as a supporting player that enhances the color and luster of the work. Signed wooden box (shiho-san)
Diameter 6.9cm × Diameter 6.8cm × Height 5.7cm Yu Fujiwara (1932–2001, born in Bizen City, Okayama Prefecture) was the eldest son of Living National Treasure Kei Fujiwara. In his pottery, he adopted the motto "simple, clear, and bold," and was known as "Yu of the Jars" for the many jars and bowls he produced. Influenced by Rosanjin Kitaoji, he was also skilled at tableware. Starting in 1972, he held a series of exhibitions, including the "100 Jars Exhibition," "Tokkuri (Sake Bottle) Exhibition," "100 Flowers Exhibition," and "100 Bowls Exhibition." He also created many large-scale reliefs and objects. He received the Japan Ceramic Society Award in 1967. In 1980, he was designated as a holder of an important intangible cultural property by Okayama Prefecture. In 1996, he became the first person in the ceramic world to achieve the status of a nationally designated holder of an important intangible cultural property (Living National Treasure) as a second-generation successor to his father.
Major awards include: Kaneshige Toyo Award, Okayama Prefecture Cultural Encouragement Award and Cultural Award, Sanyo Shimbun Award, Chugoku Cultural Award, Minister of Education Award for Fine Arts, Academia Grand Prize for Art and Culture, and the Medal with Blue Ribbon.