Bizen sake cup

This is a Bizen sake cup by Living National Treasure Toshu Yamamoto, an artist renowned for his peerless, god-like technical mastery and the creation of numerous masterpieces. Crafted from high-quality clay with low iron content, this "dashing" sake cup features a crisp, refined form complemented by a dry, refreshing sesame glaze. The yellow sesame glaze itself displays rich variation, with granular "flying" sesame spots alternating with a thick, wet-looking yellow glaze that is endlessly captivating to the viewer. Beautiful flying sesame spots are also scattered around the circular unglazed patch in the interior, creating a stunning contrast with the caramel-colored kiln alteration characteristic of clay with low iron content around the foot. Original signed box (shiho-san style)
Diameter 6.8cm × Diameter 6.8cm × Height 5.6cm Toshu Yamamoto (1906–1994, born in Imbe, Bizen City) entered the world of ceramics in 1921 and established his own kiln in 1933. He later polished his skills under Kyoto ceramicist Yaichi Kusube. After the war, he deepened his friendships with figures such as Rosanjin Kitaoji and Isamu Noguchi. Known as "Toshu of the Potter's Wheel" for his exceptional wheel-throwing skills, he created delicate works and actively engaged in the production of tea ceramics, primarily tea caddies, establishing his status as a master of tea ware. He was designated as a Living National Treasure (Holder of Important Intangible Cultural Property) in 1987. In 1992, he held the "Journey of the Six Ancient Kilns: Living National Treasure Toshu Yamamoto Exhibition."
Major awards and honors include the Okayama Prefecture Cultural Award, Miki Memorial Award, Sanyo Shimbun Award, Chugoku Cultural Award, Mainichi Art Award, Bizen City Distinguished Service Award, Medal with Purple Ribbon, Medal with Dark Blue Ribbon, Order of the Sacred Treasure, Gold Rays with Rosette, and Honorary Citizen of Bizen City.