Bizen Sake Cup

This is an earlier Bizen sake cup by Mamoru Taku, an artist who has dedicated himself to the study of ancient Bizen and stands out for his unique, profound aesthetic. While the form is as tranquil as a calm lake, one can feel the subtle undulations of the clay characteristic of the coil-building technique. Its hard, densely fired body is reminiscent of ancient Bizen, and the dark *hidasuki* (fire-cord) markings across the marbled clay texture are truly magnificent. Through a *kabuse-yaki* (covered firing) process, sesame glaze has rained down from above, creating an exquisite effect in the interior where layers of melted glaze have pooled together. Signed wooden box to be provided later (please allow some time for shipment).
Diameter 7.0cm × 6.7cm × Height 5.7cm Mamoru Taku graduated from the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering at Kyushu Sangyo University in 1984, after which he was drawn to the world of traditional crafts and entered the world of Bizen ware. He learned the fundamentals of pottery at the Bizen Ceramic Center before apprenticing under Takaaki Kimura to hone his skills. In 1983, he built an ascending kiln in Saeki and established himself as an independent artist. In 1998, he moved his studio to Takebe and built a semi-underground anagama kiln. His work focuses on the expression of the clay's inherent character, creating large jars, sake vessels, and vases using the coil-building technique. He also works with *Ibe-te*—a style involving applying a clay slip to the body before firing—and is deeply committed to the harmony between clay, firing, and form. His work has been selected for exhibitions including the Japan Traditional Crafts Branch Exhibition, the China International Ceramic Exhibition, and the Asahi Ceramic Exhibition.