Bizen Yohen Beer Mug

These are newly fired Bizen beer tumblers by Iwao Kaneshige, an artist who was born and raised in the prestigious Kaneshige family and who diligently continues his craft in the same kiln used by the legendary Toyo Kaneshige and Michiaki Kaneshige. These beer tumblers feature a simple finish that highlights the raw quality of the clay that Master Iwao favors, and each piece is uniquely and playfully designed, with some featuring lug handles or a spout-like rim. They were placed in an area of the kiln where kiln transformation occurs, and the box is inscribed with "Yohen" (kiln transformation). For this reason, the artist has used his deeply carved "I" ceramic seal, which is less likely to be obscured by falling ash. Signed wooden box (double-crosspiece lid)
Diameter 6.3cm x 6.1cm x Height 12.3cm Iwao Kaneshige is the eldest son of Michiaki Kaneshige. Born and raised in a family of Bizen pottery artists, his love for ceramics led him to pursue the path of a potter. He honed his skills under the guidance of the Kaneshige family, became independent in 1995, and held his first solo exhibition at a gallery in Okayama. He participated in the Kaneshige Family Exhibitions in 1999 and 2001.