Black Grail

This black cup is the work of Masao Akiya, who studied under Living National Treasure Jun Isezaki and creates original works imbued with a new spirit. Reflecting Mr. Akiya’s intense dedication to the color black, this piece is a visual masterpiece that blends a deep, glossy black with rich sesame-like ash markings (goma). Its design, which reflects Mr. Akiya’s studious nature, perfectly integrates aesthetics with ease of use, making it a piece that is not only a joy to drink from but also rewarding to admire once finished. Named a "black cup," its size falls somewhere between a tea cup and a beer mug, making it suitable for shochu or beer. It comes with a paulownia wood box, making it an ideal gift. Signed wooden box to be provided later (please allow some time for shipping)
Diameter 8.6cm x Diameter 8.5cm x Height 9.3cm Masao Akiya was born in Saitama in 1968. In 1998, he began an apprenticeship under Living National Treasure Jun Isezaki. After ten years of training, he built his own kiln in Bizen and became independent in 2008, holding his first kiln opening in 2009. He has been selected for exhibitions such as the Tanabe Museum of Art’s "Tea Ceremony Modeling Exhibition" and the Japan Kōgei Association Chugoku Branch Exhibition, and has received awards including the Okayama Prefectural Art Exhibition Prize and the Encouragement Award.