Bizen-yōhen Beer Mug

This is a newly kiln-fired Bizen beer tumbler by Iwao Kaneshige, who was born and raised in the prestigious Kaneshige family and continues to work diligently in the kiln used for generations by the great Toyo Kaneshige and Michiaki Kaneshige. These beer tumblers feature a simple finish that highlights the raw quality of the clay that Iwao-sensei prefers, and are filled with a playful spirit, with each piece individually designed—some featuring handles and others with a spouted rim. They were placed in a position in the kiln to capture kiln alterations, hence the "Yohen" (kiln change) inscription on the box. For this reason, he used his "I" ceramic seal, which is deeply carved to prevent it from being obscured by falling ash.
*The black areas are iron deposits that have erupted to the surface. Original signed box (with two-way struts)
Diameter 6.7cm x 6.0cm x Height 11.7cm Iwao Kaneshige is the eldest son of Michiaki Kaneshige. Born and raised in a family of Bizen ware artists, he pursued the path of pottery because of his own love for the craft. After honing his skills under the guidance of the Kaneshige family, he became independent in 1995 and held his first solo exhibition at a gallery in Okayama. He has exhibited in the Kaneshige Family Exhibition in 1999 and 2001.