Bizen Sake Cup

This is a Bizen sake cup by Masao Akiya, an artist who studied under Living National Treasure Jun Isezaki and creates works overflowing with his own unique originality amidst a fresh sensibility. The rounded, egg-like form is remarkably stylish, evoking the feeling of a miniature objet d'art. Such a sophisticated shape pairs perfectly with the refreshing finish of the wood-fired kiln, resulting in the clean, airy quality that is characteristic of Akiya's work. The form and firing are in exquisite harmony, making it a wonderful piece for use as a small vase to arrange flowers. Signed wooden box (double-slatted lid)
Diameter 7.0cm × Diameter 6.9cm × Height 7.1cm Masao Akiya was born in Saitama in 1968. In 1998, he began an apprenticeship under Living National Treasure Jun Isezaki. After ten years of training, he built his own kiln in Bizen and became independent in 2008. He held his first kiln opening in 2009. He has been selected for the Tanabe Museum of Art's "Tea Ceremony Modeling Exhibition" and the Japan Kōgei Association Chugoku Branch Exhibition, and has received awards including the Okayama Prefectural Art Exhibition's Prefectural Exhibition Prize and Encouragement Prize.