Bizen sake cup

This is a Bizen sake cup by Kei Fujiwara, a man beloved by all for his bold, open-hearted style and the warmth that radiated from his work. The large, imposing form of his later years possesses a remarkable power, truly representing the essence of "Kei Bizen." The moist, supple, reddish-brown surface looks as if it is thirsting for sake, and one can be certain that with dedicated use, it will mellow and transform into a texture of supreme quality. The interior features a rich *hidaski* (fire-cord) marking that appears to float hazily once filled with sake. Signed and boxed by Keisuke (Shiho-san box)
Diameter 7.5cm × Diameter 7.3cm × Height 6.4cm Kei Fujiwara (1899–1983, born in Bizen City, Okayama Prefecture) entered the world of Bizen pottery at the suggestion of Atsuo Masamune, a scholar of Japanese literature living in Honami, Bizen City. He learned wheel-throwing techniques from Umegei Mimura, and from 1941, he further honed his skills by studying firing methods under fellow Living National Treasure Toyo Kaneshige. Following the simplicity and boldness found in the utilitarian wares of the Kamakura and Muromachi periods, he created jars and flower vases with a generous and clear-cut style. The artistic sensibility he absorbed in his youth greatly influenced his work. In 1954, he became the second person to be designated a holder of an Important Intangible Cultural Property (Living National Treasure) for Bizen pottery, and in 1958, he became a director of the Japan Kōgei Association. In 1977, the Kei Fujiwara Memorial Museum was established in Bizen City, Okayama Prefecture.
Major awards: Okayama Prefecture Cultural Award, Sanyo Shimbun Award, Chugoku Cultural Award, Honorary Citizen of Bizen City, Honorary Citizen of Okayama Prefecture; posthumously awarded the Order of the Sacred Treasure, Third Class.