Bizen Sake Cup

This is a Bizen sake cup by Living National Treasure Toshu Yamamoto, an artist known for his incomparable, god-like technical mastery and for creating numerous masterpieces. True to Toshu's style, this sake cup features a precise and refined form, from the rim down to the base. The base has a satisfying weight, giving it a dignified presence when held in the hand. The piece is colored by a base of slightly bright clay, accented by muted-toned *goma* (ash glaze) and a *sangiri* firing effect that glistens as if wet. Original signed wooden box (shiho-zan)
Diameter 6.7cm x 6.6cm x Height 5.3cm Toshu Yamamoto (1906–1994, born in Imbe, Bizen City) entered the world of ceramics in 1921 and established his own kiln in 1933. He later studied under Kyoto ceramic artist Yaichi Kusube to hone his skills. After the war, he deepened his friendships with artists such as Rosanjin Kitaoji and Isamu Noguchi. Known as "Toshu of the Potter's Wheel" for his superior throwing skills, he created delicate works and passionately pursued the production of tea ceramics—particularly tea caddies—establishing his reputation as a master of tea ware. In 1987, he was designated a Living National Treasure (Holder of Important Intangible Cultural Property). In 1992, he held the exhibition "Journey to the Six Ancient Kilns: Living National Treasure Toshu Yamamoto."
Major awards: Okayama Prefecture Cultural Award, Miki Memorial Award, Sanyo Shimbun Award, Chugoku Cultural Award, Mainichi Art Award, Bizen City Distinguished Service Award, Medal with Purple Ribbon, Medal with Dark Blue Ribbon, Order of the Sacred Treasure, 4th Class, Honorary Citizen of Bizen City