Ibe Shuten

This is an Ibe sake cup by Michiaki Kaneshige, who was born as the eldest son of the master Toyo Kaneshige and captivated everyone with a style that infused unique sensibilities into tradition. Although this piece, from Michiaki's later years, possesses a gentle and understated form, it is truly remarkable that one can instantly recognize it as his work. The overall finish features soft "goma" (sesame glaze) and "sangiri" (discoloration from ash/reduction) that harmonize with the gentle form, and combined with the excellence of the clay, the tender texture brings joy to the fingers and healing to the heart. The subtle changes in the character of the clay are truly wabi-esque, making this sake cup a distillation of the joys of ceramics. (Please note that while there are no stains, this is a pre-owned piece and shows some signs of use.) Signed wooden box (shiho-san) included
Diameter 6.5cm × Diameter 6.4cm × Height 5.3cm Michiaki Kaneshige (1934–1995) was born in Ibe as the eldest son of the Living National Treasure, Toyo Kaneshige. In 1955, he graduated from the Kanazawa College of Art, specializing in crafts. He became a ceramic artist under the tutelage of his father, Toyo. From 1957, he was selected for the Asahi Contemporary Ceramics Exhibition for three consecutive years. He was also selected for the Nitten Exhibition, and in 1960, he toured various parts of the United States to observe ceramic arts. In 1969, he became a full member of the Japan Kōgei Association and received the Toyo Kaneshige Award in 1970. In 1973, he was recommended as a committee member for the Issuikai Ceramics Department. In 1980, he received the Japan Ceramic Society Award, and in 1990, he was officially designated as an Okayama Prefecture Important Intangible Cultural Property. He excelled in tea ceramics and also worked on geometrically shaped bowls. He also exhibited his work in overseas exhibitions.