Bizen Syuhai

This is a Bizen sake cup by Living National Treasure Yu Fujiwara, who expanded his vision beyond Japan to share the appeal of Bizen ware with the world. A work from his middle period, its thin-walled form is both easy to use and visually elegant, truly embodying a sense of bold freedom. The slightly kiln-altered orange coloration, combined with the interesting "nuke" (clear patches) where the *hidasuki* (fire-cord) markings intersect, allows one to fully enjoy the rich, rustic texture of the clay. The same orange clay tone appears in the interior of the cup, making every drink more enjoyable and delicious. Signed wooden box (two-way cross-lath type)
Diameter 7.7cm × Diameter 7.4cm × Height 5.9cm Yu Fujiwara (1932–2001, born in Bizen City, Okayama Prefecture) was the eldest son of Living National Treasure Kei Fujiwara. In his pottery, he followed the motto of "simple, clear, and bold," producing many jars and bowls, which earned him the nickname "Yu of the Jars." Influenced by Rosanjin Kitaoji, he was also highly skilled in creating tableware. From 1972, he organized serialized exhibitions such as the "Hundred Jars Exhibition," "Tokkuri (Sake Bottle) Exhibition," "Hundred Flowers Exhibition," and "Hundred Bowls Exhibition." He also created numerous large-scale reliefs and objects. He received the Japan Ceramic Society Award in 1967. In 1980, he was designated a holder of an important intangible cultural property by Okayama Prefecture. In 1996, he became the first person in the history of the ceramic arts to succeed his parent as a nationally designated holder of an important intangible cultural property (Living National Treasure).
Key awards include: Kaneshige Toyo Prize, Okayama Prefecture Cultural Encouragement Award and Cultural Award, Sanyo Shimbun Award, Chugoku Culture Award, Minister of Education Award for Fine Arts, Academia Grand Prize for Art and Culture, and the Medal with Dark Blue Ribbon.