Bizen Sake Cup

This Bizen sake cup is the work of the second generation Fujiwara Rakuzan, a holder of the designation of Prefectural Important Intangible Cultural Property, who was born as the third son of the master craftsman and first generation Fujiwara Rakuzan and went on to create various masterpieces. The center of the sake cup has been indented with a thumb press, which has become a signature design of Rakuzan’s. The thumb press and strong wheel marks enhance the fit, resulting in a work that is comfortable to use, characteristic of Rakuzan, who was known as a man of refined taste. The interior features a sophisticated "goma" (sesame) glaze, as if the master craftsman is teaching us the inherent, rustic charm of Bizen ware. (Please note that the box is slightly tight.) Signed wooden box (shiho-zan style)
Diameter 7.8cm × Diameter 6.9cm × Height 5.1cm The second generation Fujiwara Rakuzan was born as the third son of the master craftsman, the first generation Fujiwara Rakuzan. He studied pottery under his father from an early age, and after his father's death in 1930, he succeeded to the name Rakuzan II. Renowned as "Rakuzan of the tea bowls and incense burners," he was certified as a national "Maruwaza" artist in 1948 and became an Okayama Prefecture Important Intangible Cultural Property holder in 1954. He also received the Okayama Nichinichi Shimbun Art and Culture Merit Award and the Order of the Rising Sun, Silver Rays. He passed away on September 3, 1996.