Ibe Yunomi

This Ibe teacup by Tomio Ochi was created as he worked diligently at his kiln under the guidance of Anjin Abe, pouring his unfulfilled aspirations into his ceramics. Hand-coiled and shaped slowly, the piece has a profound sense of weight when held, making it feel as if the clay has been condensed into a high density. This quality is further emphasized by the generous application of yellow "goma" (ash glaze) and the moist, dewy texture characteristic of the Ibe style. The yellow goma features crackles that will become more prominent with use, allowing the cup to acquire a presence reminiscent of ancient pottery. Signed wooden box to follow at a later date (please allow some time for delivery).
Diameter 8.2cm x 8.1cm x Height 9.7cm Tomio Ochi graduated from Niihama Technical High School in Ehime Prefecture in 1949. He moved to Tokyo in 1952 to study oil painting and sculpture, and continued to pursue these arts while working for a company. In 1997, he visited Anjin Abe in Ushimado, Setouchi City, Okayama Prefecture, to seek his mentorship. He built his own kiln in Ushimado in 1998, and has since been crafting Bizen ware, drawing upon his background in sculpture and painting.