Bizen sake cup

This Bizen sake cup is the work of Living National Treasure Yu Fujiwara, who expanded the reach of Bizen ware not only within Japan but across the globe. The style is unmistakably that of Fujiwara, a piece created with an honest spirit that eschews superficial technique. A dense, matte "kase-goma" ash glaze covers the entire surface, complemented by the deep, heavy, and profound "tsuchi-aji" (texture/color of the clay) that seems to sink into the work. The hallmark "full moon" botan-mochi mark is clearly featured in the interior, and along with the scenery of fine sesame-like ash deposits layered like snow, it is sure to enliven any drinking occasion. Signed wooden box (shiho-san) included
Diameter 7.6cm × 7.4cm × Height 5.7cm Yu Fujiwara (1932–2001, born in Bizen, Okayama Prefecture) was the eldest son of Living National Treasure Kei Fujiwara. In his pottery, he followed the motto of "simple, clear, and bold," producing many vases and bowls, earning him the nickname "Yu of the Vases." Influenced by Rosanjin Kitaoji, he was also highly skilled in creating tableware. From 1972, he held themed exhibitions such as the "100 Vases," "Tokkuri (Sake Bottle) Exhibition," "100 Flowers," and "100 Bowls." He also produced numerous large-scale reliefs and objects. He received the Japan Ceramic Society Award in 1967. In 1980, he was designated a holder of an important intangible cultural property by Okayama Prefecture. In 1996, he became the first person in the world of ceramics to be designated a holder of a nationally designated important intangible cultural property (Living National Treasure), following in the footsteps of his father.
Major awards include: Kaneshige Toyo Award, Okayama Prefecture Cultural Encouragement Award and Cultural Award, Sanyo Shimbun Award, Chugoku Cultural Award, Minister of Education Award for Fine Arts, Academia Grand Prize for Art and Culture, and the Medal with Dark Blue Ribbon.