Bizen Sake Cup

This is a Bizen sake cup by Masahiro Miyao, an artist captivated by the art of earth and fire who studied ceramic techniques in Imbe. Both in its form and firing, this is a delightfully straightforward piece that perfectly embodies the essence of Bizen ware. The gray ash glaze covers the surface completely, with hints of yellow appearing at the edges, creating a textbook example of *haikaburi* (ash-covered) scenery. The lower portion has been carefully crafted to avoid kiln alteration, revealing a rich *shiso* (reddish-brown) color; the contrast with the matte scarlet clay of the interior offers a masterclass in the profound range of transformations possible with Bizen clay. Signed wooden box (double-crosspiece)
Diameter 7.1cm × Diameter 6.6cm × Height 5.7cm Masahiro Miyao was born in Tsuiki-cho, Fukuoka Prefecture. He moved to Bizen in 1991 to begin his training. In 1995, he joined the Bishu Kiln, where he honed his 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. In 2006, he was awarded 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 full member of the Japan Kōgei Association. In 2008, he received the Japan Kōgei Association Award at the Japan Traditional Art Crafts Chugoku Branch Exhibition.