Bizen tea cup

This tea cup is the work of Shusaku Taku, an artist who shapes his pieces using the emotions of daily life as his "yeast," while honoring the time-honored traditions of Bizen ware that have matured alongside human history. Slowly fashioned on a potter's wheel, this piece features a slightly wide profile that perfectly complements its dignified waist and tapered shoulder. When held, the thumb and forefinger fit naturally into the tapered shoulder, a functional design that is particularly welcome for Bizen ware, which tends to conduct heat. The bright brown clay body pairs beautifully with the characteristic dry, yellow "sesame" (goma) glaze of Bizen.

Shusaku Taku Interview No box
Diameter 8.6cm x 8.4cm x Height 9.2cm Shusaku Taku was born in 1980 as the eldest son of Mamoru Taku. In 2001, he graduated from the Arita College of Ceramics in Saga Prefecture and began his apprenticeship under his father. In 2002, he received the Okayama Prefectural Board of Education Superintendent's Award at the Japan Traditional Kogei Chugoku Branch Exhibition. In 2004, he won the Excellence Award at the Tanabe Art Museum Tea Ceremony Art Exhibition. He has also had works selected for the Okayama Prefectural Art Exhibition and the Japan Traditional Kogei Chugoku Branch Exhibition.