Ibe Shuten

This is an Ibe sake cup by Tomio Ochi, who works diligently at his kiln under the guidance of Yasuhito Abe, pouring his unfulfilled artistic passions into his ceramics. The piece was slowly formed by hand, and upon picking it up, one feels its substantial weight, as if the clay itself has been condensed to a high density. This impression is further emphasized by the generous application of yellow sesame glaze and the moist-looking texture characteristic of the Ibe style. The yellow sesame glaze features crackling, which will become more pronounced as it is used, giving the piece the dignified presence of antique pottery. Signed box to follow (please allow some time for shipping)
Diameter 7.2cm × 7.1cm × Height 5.4cm Tomio Ochi graduated from Ehime Prefectural Niihama Technical High School in 1949. In 1952, he moved to Tokyo to study oil painting and sculpture. Thereafter, he pursued painting and sculpture while working a corporate job. In 1997, he visited Yasuhito Abe in Ushimado, Setouchi City, Okayama Prefecture, to receive his tutelage. He built his kiln in Ushimado in 1998, where he continues to create Bizen ware, drawing on his background in sculpture and painting.