Bizen ware shochu cup

This Bizen-yaki shochu cup is the work of Masahiro Miyao, who was captivated by the art of earth and fire and studied pottery techniques in Imbe. The dynamic form, combined with fluid spatula carvings, creates a mysterious aesthetic that makes the piece look as if it could be folded. The powerful texture of the coarse clay matches the substantial, profound style of the work, seeming to invite you to use it extensively. With its broad appeal, it is a versatile piece that can be used for café au lait, tea, or other beverages beyond just shochu. (Please note that the *kase-goma* (crusty ash glaze) on the rim has been partially removed by the artist.) Paper box
Diameter 10.2cm x Diameter 9.8cm x Height 9.4cm Masahiro Miyao was born in Tsuiki-cho, Fukuoka Prefecture. He came to Bizen in 1991 to undergo training. In 1995, he joined the Bishu-gama kiln, where he refined his pottery skills under the guidance of Yuichi Yamamoto. He built his own climbing kiln and held his first firing in 2001. He has received numerous awards, including the Prefectural Exhibition Encouragement Award in 1999, the Prefectural Exhibition Award in 2000, and the Excellence Award at the Tea Ceremony Arts Exhibition in 2003, and in 2006, he won the Japan Kōgei Association Chairman’s Award at the Japan Traditional Art Crafts Exhibition. In 2007, he received the Okayama Mayor’s Award at the Japan Kōgei Association Chugoku Branch 50th Anniversary Exhibition and became a regular member of the Japan Kōgei Association. In 2008, he won the Japan Kōgei Association Award at the Japan Traditional Art Crafts Chugoku Branch Exhibition.