Ibe Guinomi

This is an Imbe sake cup by the renowned master Sozan Kaneshige, widely celebrated as an "uncrowned king." Fired at the front of the kiln, this piece is covered in a smooth layer of *goma* (ash glaze), creating a lustrous and captivating aesthetic. The bright brown clay body is expertly fired, giving the surface the appearance of melted chocolate. A sharp spatula has been used to carve a single, straight line around the body, capturing the dynamic sense of rhythmic fluidity characteristic of Sozan’s work. The wide foot is equally bold; it adds a torrent-like accent to the calm, mountain-like form, unfolding a one-of-a-kind "Sozan world." Box identified by Yuho (Shiho-san box)
Diameter 6.5cm × Diameter 6.5cm × Height 6.8cm Sozan Kaneshige (1909–1995) was the younger brother of Living National Treasure Toyo Kaneshige, with whom he worked until around 1951. Known for his mastery of Momoyama-style *hidasuki* (fire-cord) techniques, he was regarded as a leading figure in tea ceramics. In 1964, he established the Maruyama Kiln in the eastern suburbs of Okayama City, and in 1966, he caused a sensation by introducing Momoyama-style *hidasuki* fired in an electric kiln. He moved to Imbe in 1982 to establish the Ushigami-shita Kiln, and in 1983, he was designated a Prefectural Important Intangible Cultural Property holder. He received a Commissioner for Cultural Affairs Award, the Okayama Prefecture Cultural Award, and the Order of the Rising Sun, Gold Rays with Rosette. He passed away in 1995.