Bizen sake cup

This Bizen sake cup is the work of Shusaku Taku, an artist who transforms the various emotions of daily life into form, drawing on the Bizen tradition that has matured alongside the continuous activities of people throughout history. Crafted in the style of ancient Bizen, the piece is shaped using the coil technique, after which the form is refined by scraping away the clay with a spatula. The artist focuses strictly on the qualities of a "vessel," ensuring a comfortable feel in the hand and a pleasant mouthfeel for drinking sake. The moist, almost wet-looking *hidasuki* (fire-cord) markings possess an allure and elegance reminiscent of antique Bizen ware. Signed wooden box (double-crosspiece lid)
Diameter 7.1cm × Diameter 7.1cm × Height 4.7cm Shusaku Taku was born in 1980 as the eldest son of Mamoru Taku. In 2001, he graduated from the Arita College of Ceramics in Saga Prefecture and began his apprenticeship under his father. In 2002, he received the Okayama Prefectural Board of Education Superintendent's Award at the Japan Traditional Kogei Chugoku Branch Exhibition. In 2004, he received an Excellence Award at the Tanabe Art Museum Tea Ceremony Art Exhibition. He has also been selected for the Okayama Prefectural Art Exhibition and the Japan Traditional Kogei Chugoku Branch Exhibition.