Polychrome Bizen ware sake cup

This is a new colored Bizen sake cup by Anjin Abe, an artist who possesses deep insight and an aesthetic sense for antique ceramics, and who creates one-of-a-kind works through his unique research and firing techniques. It is a piece with a striking composition, featuring a magnificent Mt. Fuji set against a golden painted background. The coloring in this piece is exceptionally vivid; while a traditional matte gold has been chosen for the background, a much brighter, shimmering gold has also been used for the framing, adding a rich sense of volume to the work. Because these two types of gold function as the background, the hue of the "Red Fuji" stands out even more, and the snow-capped peak, combined with its foamy finish, is particularly lovely. The reverse side also functions as a secondary front, displaying a stunning antique Bizen-style landscape that will impress even the most discerning antique ceramics enthusiast. (Please note that there is a slight blister inside the cup, but it does not affect its use.) Signed wooden box (Shiho-san, double box)
Diameter 6.8cm × Diameter 6.3cm × Height 6.3cm Anjin Abe was originally a Western-style painter. He began collecting pottery as a hobby, but finding contemporary Bizen ware lacking, he started pottery in 1972 to create works he could be satisfied with. He frequently creates water jars, flower vases, flattened jars, bowls, sake bottles, and sake cups. All are wheel-thrown and finished with a spatula. He bases his pottery on the antique Bizen ware of the Momoyama period and is highly particular about his firing process. He also exhibits works that combine various materials and techniques, such as ceramics, lacquer, oil paint, and bronze (mixed media), and is engaged in a wide range of expressive activities. He holds solo exhibitions energetically both in Japan and overseas, including in Tokyo, Osaka, New York, and Paris.