Bizen sake cup

This is a Bizen sake cup by Living National Treasure Toshu Yamamoto, an artist renowned for his peerless, god-like mastery and the creation of numerous masterpieces. It is a quintessential Toshu work, featuring a firm and refined form that extends from the rim down to the base. The flowing gold hues combined with cloud-like white *sangiri* (kiln-change patterns) evoke the vast scenery of a galaxy and nebula within the small body of the cup. A romantic, silvery full moon is also captured in the interior, making this mysterious piece feel as though a story has been materialized into a single vessel. Original signed wooden box (shiho-zan) with lid.
Diameter 6.7cm x Diameter 6.5cm x Height 5.7cm Toshu Yamamoto (1906–1994, born in Ibe, Bizen City) entered the world of ceramics in 1921 and established his own kiln in 1933. He later refined his skills under the Kyoto ceramic artist Yaichi Kusube. After the war, he deepened his friendships with figures such as Rosanjin Kitaoji and Isamu Noguchi. Known as "Toshu of the Potter's Wheel" for his exceptional technique and delicate works, he also took a proactive approach to creating tea ceramics, primarily tea caddies, establishing his status as a master of tea ware. He was designated a Holder of Important Intangible Cultural Property (Living National Treasure) in 1987. In 1992, he held the exhibition "Journey of the Six Ancient Kilns: Living National Treasure Toshu Yamamoto."
Major awards: Okayama Prefecture Cultural Award, Miki Memorial Award, Sanyo Shimbun Award, Chugoku Culture Award, Mainichi Art Award, Bizen City Distinguished Service Award, Medal with Purple Ribbon, Medal with Dark Blue Ribbon, Order of the Sacred Treasure, Gold Rays with Rosette, Honorary Citizen of Bizen City