Bizen ware mug

This Bizen mug was just fired in the kiln by Masao Akiya, an artist who studied under Living National Treasure Jun Isezaki and creates works overflowing with unique originality within a new spirit. This is the first new work from Masao Akiya in about two years since his last kiln firing. Much like his mentor, Jun Isezaki, Mr. Akiya aims for craftsmanship that matches a modern sensibility, and this piece features an excellent design that is both orthodox and sophisticated. Rather than the thick, difficult-to-grip handles often found on pottery, he has skillfully spread out thin, plate-like clay to balance both aesthetics and usability. The rim is generously covered in a smooth-textured "goma" (ash glaze) that feels like glass against the lips, making for a pleasant experience. Paper box
Diameter 10.8cm × 8.2cm × Height 7.7cm Masao Akiya was born in Saitama in 1968. In 1998, he began studying 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 kiln firing in 2009. He has been selected for exhibitions such as the Tanabe Museum of Art's "Tea Ceremony Modeling Exhibition" and the Japan Kōgei Association Chugoku Branch Exhibition, and has received awards including the Prefectural Exhibition Prize and the Encouragement Prize at the Okayama Prefectural Art Exhibition.