Bizen Black Sake Cup

This is a Bizen black guinomi (sake cup) by Takashi Baba, an artist born in Imbe who has loved Bizen ware since childhood and finds his life's joy in creating works and firing kilns. The large, bold form features a body that appears twisted, creating a powerful impression. Despite its size, it is light in the hand, achieving a balance between design and functionality. The black surface emits a unique luster; while based on a dark, iron-like texture, the foot and other areas shimmer with a pale blue. Signed wooden box (futahozan style)
Diameter 8.2cm × Diameter 8.0cm × Height 6.3cm Takashi Baba was born in 1983 as the eldest son of Bizen ware artist Shosuke Baba. Considering a future as a potter from a young age, he chose to study sculpture in university to broaden his artistic scope. After graduating from the Tokyo University of the Arts with a degree in sculpture in 2006, he further honed his skills at the Kyoto Municipal Institute of Industrial Technology and Culture. He became independent in 2007 and held his first solo exhibition. He is currently active primarily through solo exhibitions at department stores.