Bizen sake cup

This Bizen sake cup is the work of Living National Treasure Yu Fujiwara, who expanded his vision beyond Japan to the world to share the appeal of Bizen ware. True to his motto of "simple, clear, and bold," the piece is a straightforward, no-frills creation. It has a comfortable weight and size that fits perfectly in the hand, reflecting Fujiwara-sensei’s philosophy that his pottery was only truly complete when used. The smooth, matte texture of the clay is expected to take on a beautiful reddish-purple hue when dampened by sake. Signed wooden box (double-slatted)
Diameter 7.2cm × Diameter 7.1cm × Height 5.3cm Yu Fujiwara (1932–2001, born in Bizen City, Okayama Prefecture) was the eldest son of Living National Treasure Kei Fujiwara. Guided by his motto of "simple, clear, and bold," he produced many vases and bowls, earning him the nickname "Yu of the Vases." Influenced by Rosanjin Kitaoji, he was also highly skilled in creating tableware. Beginning in 1972, he held a series of exhibitions, including the "100 Vases 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 and was designated a Prefectural Important Intangible Cultural Property holder in 1980. In 1996, he became the first person in the world of ceramics to be named a nationally designated holder of an Important Intangible Cultural Property (Living National Treasure), following in the footsteps of his father.
Major awards include the 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 Arts and Culture Grand Prize, and the Medal with Blue Ribbon.