Bizen Hidasuki Sake Cup

This Bizen sake cup was created by Living National Treasure Yu Fujiwara, who expanded his horizons beyond Japan to the rest of the world to widely communicate the charm of Bizen ware. This piece perfectly captures the characteristics of his signature "Yu-Hidasuki" style, where a darker scarlet *hidasuki* (fire cord) pattern overlays the faint, reddish clay base. The interior is dyed a solid scarlet, reminiscent of a vermilion-lacquered vessel, yet the mischievous touch of the kiln god has sprinkled it with *goma* (ash glaze) droplets, reminding us that it is indeed unglazed stoneware. Reflecting his simple, clear, and bold personality, the piece is crafted with a sense of freedom, allowing one to relax and surrender to the leisurely flow of time while using it. Signed wooden box (double-slat lid)
Diameter 8.1cm × Diameter 7.7cm × Height 5.6cm Yu Fujiwara (1932–2001, born in Bizen City, Okayama Prefecture) was the eldest son of Living National Treasure Kei Fujiwara. In his pottery, he adhered to the motto of being "simple, clear, and bold." He produced many jars and bowls, earning him the nickname "Yu of the Jars." Influenced by Rosanjin Kitaoji, he was also highly skilled in creating tableware. Starting in 1972, he held a series of exhibitions, including the "100 Jars," "Sake Bottle," "100 Flowers," and "100 Bowls" exhibitions. He also created numerous large-scale reliefs and objects. He received the Japan Ceramic Society Award in 1967. In 1980, he was designated as a Holder of Prefectural Important Intangible Cultural Property. In 1996, he became the first person in the pottery world to be designated a Holder of Important Intangible Cultural Property (Living National Treasure), following in the footsteps of his father, marking the first father-son duo to receive the honor.
Major awards include: Kaneshige Toyo Prize, Okayama Prefectural Cultural Encouragement Award and Cultural Award, Sanyo Shimbun Award, Chugoku Cultural Award, Minister of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology's Art Encouragement Prize, Academia Art and Culture Grand Prize, and the Medal with Dark Blue Ribbon.