Hikidashi-guro sake cup

This is a newly fired *hikidashiguro* (pulled-black) sake cup by Masao Akitani, a potter who studied under Living National Treasure Jun Isezaki and creates works overflowing with unique originality within a fresh sensibility. This is the first new work from Akitani-sensei in approximately two years since his last firing. Its charm lies in its mysterious appearance, which captures exactly what occurs within the searing, unreachable temperatures of the kiln, achieved through the *hikidashiguro* technique—a hallmark of the Isezaki school. Because the pieces are intentionally placed in front of the fire to achieve the "pulling" effect, the black slip applied to the surface is washed away by large amounts of ash (*goma*), and the subsequent pulling and rapid cooling result in a unique landscape of blended black, blue, and amber hues. Furthermore, the *goma* in the interior, the true highlight of the *hikidashiguro* style, is perfect, with a viscous flow of obsidian-like ash frozen in place. While his style emphasizes form, the rim is well-finished and the size is moderate, making it a delight to use. Signed wooden box (with four-way locking lid)
Diameter 7.1cm × Diameter 6.8cm × Height 6.1cm Masao Akitani was born in Saitama in 1968. In 1998, he began an apprenticeship under Living National Treasure Jun Isezaki, and after ten years of training, he built his own kiln in Bizen and became independent in 2008. He held his first firing in 2009. His work has been selected for the Tanabe Museum of Art’s "Tea Ceremony Form Exhibition" and the Japan Kogei Association Chugoku Branch Exhibition, and he has received awards including the Okayama Prefectural Art Exhibition Prize and the Encouragement Prize.