Ibe Guinomi

This is an earlier work by Yuho Kaneshige, the immensely popular third son of the tea ceramics master Sozan Kaneshige. It is an Ibe sake cup (guinomi) crafted from "ta-tsu" (rice field clay) and fired to a moist finish, exhibiting the mellow, melt-in-the-mouth earthen texture characteristic of Kaneshige Bizen. As one might expect from a master who is deeply versed in Bizen ware and has himself been captivated by its allure, this piece hits every mark for a Bizen sake vessel. The magnificent orange earthen tone of the interior, in particular, transforms into a stunning color when sake is poured into it, as if the life residing within the clay is reawakening and stirring. The "kase-goma" (dry, crusty ash glaze), reminiscent of withered, decayed tree bark, is superb, and the contrast created by the yellow ash glaze near the scarlet earthen tone—providing a dry texture against the moist clay—is truly beautiful. (This is a slightly older work containing a curriculum vitae up to 2008; please note that it shows almost no signs of use.) Signed wooden box (shiho-san style)
Diameter 6.8cm x 6.6cm x Height 6.2cm Yuho Kaneshige was born as the third son of Intangible Cultural Property holder Sozan Kaneshige. He began learning ceramic techniques under his father in 1975. In 1980, he became independent and held his first solo exhibition in Okayama. He creates tableware with a focus on tea ceramics such as tea bowls, water jars, and flower vases. With tea bowls, which he particularly enjoys, he emphasizes interior modeling (mikomi) while pursuing balance on the exterior. He has received the Sanyo Shimbun Award at the Prefectural Exhibition, an Encouragement Award at the Exhibition of Tea Ceremony Ceramics, and an Encouragement Award at the Tanko Biennale. He received the Japan Ceramic Society Award in 2003. He is also dedicated to his solo exhibitions, which are held at various locations.