Polychrome Bizen ware elephant-ear cup

This is a polychrome Bizen elephant-ear sake cup by Anjin Abe, an artist who creates one-of-a-kind works through unique research and firing techniques, driven by his deep insight into and aesthetic sense for antique ceramics. The elephant-ear handles, the paulownia crest, and the polychrome Bizen glaze—elements that might seem disparate at first glance—are masterfully unified, creating a complete "Anjin world" that allows each charm to shine. The painted five-and-three paulownia crest, the centerpiece of the piece, is truly magnificent; it features a vivid combination of cobalt blue and emerald green centered around a white hue formed by a blend of *goma* (ash glaze) and glass. On the opposite side, all traces of the coloring disappear, allowing one to enjoy the piece as a pure Bizen elephant-ear cup, showcasing the endless ingenuity poured into this work. Signed wooden box (shihōsan, double-layered box)
Diameter 9.1 cm (including ears) × Diameter 6.3 cm × Height 5.0 cm Anjin Abe was originally a Western-style painter. While he collected ceramics as a hobby, he felt a lack of satisfaction with contemporary Bizen ware and began his journey in ceramics in 1972 to create pieces that met his own standards. He frequently creates *mizusashi* (water containers), *hana-ire* (vases), *henko* (flat flasks), bowls, *tokkuri* (sake bottles), and *shunomi* (sake cups). All of his pieces are wheel-thrown and finished with a spatula. His work is rooted in the aesthetics of Momoyama-period antique Bizen, with a particular focus on firing techniques. He is also engaged in diverse creative activities, presenting "mixed media" works that combine various materials and techniques, such as ceramics, lacquer, oil painting, and bronze. He holds solo exhibitions energetically both in Japan and abroad, including in Tokyo, Osaka, New York, and Paris.