Bizen Shu-Ha-Ri

This is a Bizen "Shuhari" sake cup by Kenji Takenaka, an artist who transitioned from jewelry design to ceramics and studied under Living National Treasure Jun Isezaki. It is an ambitious work that incorporates techniques from Oribe and Shino ware while using Bizen Samukaze clay, making it a piece truly worthy of the name "Shuhari" (protect, break, and leave). The Samukaze clay was used directly without levigation or refining, and the base reveals a light, marble-like purple hue where the clay is exposed. The combination of feldspar glaze and Oribe glaze allows one to enjoy both "kairagi" (crackle) and green glaze simultaneously, with their hues enhancing each other to create a fantastical finish. Signed wooden box to be provided at a later date (please allow some time for shipping).
Diameter 7.3cm x Diameter 7.1cm x Height 6.3cm Captivated by the medium of clay, Kenji Takenaka transitioned to ceramics from a career in jewelry design. After completing his studies at the Bizen Pottery Center in 1986, he served as an instructor there for two years. In 1988, he began studying under Jun Isezaki and established his own studio in 1994. In addition to traditional tea ceramics, sake vessels, tableware, and flower vases, he also creates highly innovative works. Using an anagama kiln for both oxidation and reduction firing, he expresses a diverse range of looks through variations in red, white, and black tones combined with the texture of the clay. He has received numerous honors, including the Okayama City Mayor’s Award and the Prefectural Exhibition Award, and has been selected for various exhibitions. He has held solo exhibitions in Tokyo, Okayama, Kurashiki, and elsewhere.