Ibe Shuten

This sake cup features the gentle scarlet *hiiro* clay texture characteristic of Iwao Kaneshige, who was born and raised into the prestigious Kaneshige family lineage and continues to diligently refine his craft in the same kiln used by his predecessors, the great Toyo Kaneshige and Michiaki Kaneshige. Crafted using the high-quality clay passed down through the Kaneshige family—prepared with meticulous time and effort—this piece possesses a profound, rustic quality that draws the viewer in the more it is observed, along with a pleasing texture. The sake cup displays a magnificent scarlet hue that seems to be a reward for the love and devotion Iwao has poured into the clay. Signed wooden box (double-braced)
Diameter 7.4cm × 7.2cm × Height 3.8cm Iwao Kaneshige is the eldest son of Michiaki Kaneshige. Born and raised into a family of Bizen ware artists, his natural love for pottery led him to pursue the craft himself. He honed his ceramic techniques under the guidance of the Kaneshige family, established his own independent practice in 1995, and held his first solo exhibition at a gallery in Okayama. He participated in the Kaneshige Family Exhibitions in 1999 and 2001.