Bizen Sake Cup

This sake cup is by Masamine Kakimi, an artist whose deep insight into Bizen ware and unique creative vision transcend the conventional boundaries of the craft. It is a piece that offers a well-balanced enjoyment of the earthy texture and natural ash glaze that define the true essence of Bizen ware. Reflecting the close relationship Masamine once shared with the masters Toyo and Toshu, it is fascinating to discern the influence of these two giants in this work. The refined and elegant form is superb, and the meticulous finishing of the foot, in particular, speaks to the artisan's masterful skill. (*Please note that this is an older work and shows slight signs of use.) Signed wooden box (double-slat lid)
Diameter 6.1cm × 6.1cm × Height 5.6cm Masamine Kakimi began his studies in 1935 at the Okayama Prefectural Crafts School (now Okayama Technical High School), where he learned maki-e lacquerware from Jinsai Namba. After the war, inspired by the style of Toyo Kaneshige, he received guidance in creating houhin teapots, which led him to pursue a career in ceramics. He also studied under Toshu Yamamoto. Breaking free from the traditional constraints of Bizen ware, he has created a diverse range of works, including "E-Bizen" (painted Bizen) and "Kinsai-Bizen" (gold-decorated Bizen) that leverage his maki-e techniques, "Jomon-Bizen" featuring rope patterns on red clay without kiln alterations, "Oni-Bizen" with intense kiln effects, and works with the texture of Sueki pottery. He became a full member of the Japan Kōgei Association in 1969 and was designated a Holder of Important Intangible Cultural Property of Okayama Prefecture in 1980. In 1997, he exhibited at the Bizen Ware Paris Exhibition. An aficionado of painting, calligraphy, and tanka poetry, he has already published four collections of his poetry. Kazan Matsuda was his brother-in-law. In 2010, he changed his name to "Juho."
Awards: Recipient of numerous honors, including the Kaneshige Toyo Prize, Sanyo Shimbun Prize, Minister of Education Award, Order of the Sacred Treasure, Gold and Silver Rays, Okayama Prefecture Cultural Award, and Miki Memorial Award. Served as a judge for the Prefectural Exhibition.