Bizen sake cup

This is a Bizen sake cup from the Seiko era by Eiko Wani, who studied under the late Toyo Kaneshige as his final apprentice, inheriting his techniques and spirit. It includes a ceramic career biography from around 1980, suggesting it was likely created around that time. Upholding his mentor Toyo Kaneshige’s teaching to be "honest to the clay, honest to the fire," he allows the inherent qualities of Bizen clay to bloom in a remarkably natural way within a style free of pretense. The soft, profound texture of the clay visible around the foot is nothing short of magnificent, as one would expect. This piece features yellow and scorched sesame glaze, characterized by a gradation from light brownish-red to scorched dark brown clay. (Please note that while there are few signs of use, it is a vintage piece.) Original signed box (with two-way cross slats)
Diameter 8.1cm x 7.4cm x Height 3.6cm Eiko Wani apprenticed under Toyo Kaneshige in 1967, becoming his final pupil. Following his master's passing, he studied under Michiaki Kaneshige and also received guidance from Sozan Kaneshige. In 1975, he built his own kiln in Kagamino and became independent after his first firing. He has held solo exhibitions in cities including Mihara, Okayama, Tokyo, and Sapporo. In 1999, he received the Grand Prize at the Tea Ceremony Arts Exhibition.