Bizen ware mug

This is a newly kiln-fired Bizen mug by Masao Akitani, an artist who studied under Living National Treasure Jun Isezaki and creates works brimming with his own unique originality amidst a fresh spirit. It is the first new work from Masao Akitani in approximately two years, since the previous firing. Much like his mentor Jun Isezaki, Mr. Akitani aims to create pieces that resonate with a contemporary sensibility, and the excellence of this orthodox yet refined design is quintessential to his style. Moving away from the thick, difficult-to-grip handles often found on earthenware, he has skillfully spread a thin, sheet-like clay to achieve a balance between aesthetic appeal and ease of use. The rim is generously coated in a smooth-textured "goma" (sesame ash glaze) that feels glass-like and pleasant against the lips. Paper box
Diameter 10.6cm × 8.1cm × Height 7.7cm Masao Akitani was born in Saitama in 1968. He began his apprenticeship under Living National Treasure Jun Isezaki in 1998, and after ten years of training, he built his own kiln in Bizen and became independent in 2008. He held his first kiln firing in 2009. His works have been selected for the Tanabe Museum of Art's Tea Ceremony Molding Exhibition and the Japan Kōgei Association Chugoku Branch Exhibition, and he has received awards including the Okayama Prefectural Art Exhibition Prize and the Encouragement Award.