Bizen black sake cup

This is a new black sake cup by Masao Akiya, an artist who studied under Living National Treasure Jun Isezaki and creates works overflowing with unique originality within a fresh spirit. It has been approximately two years since the last kiln opening for these new works by Masao Akiya. The signature notched rim and spherical form are truly stylish, allowing the piece to be rolled comfortably in the palm of your hand. The firing is excellent, featuring the classic cobalt blue kiln transformation typical of his black glaze, with a generous pool of sesame ash glaze covering the interior. While his style emphasizes form, the rim is meticulously crafted, making this slightly larger piece surprisingly pleasant and natural to use. Signed wooden box (double-braced)
Diameter 7.9cm x Diameter 7.7cm x Height 6.4cm Masao Akiya 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 opening in 2009. He has been selected for exhibitions such as the Tanabe Museum of Art’s Tea Ceremony Form Exhibition and the Japan Kōgei Association Chugoku Branch Exhibition, and has received awards including the Okayama Prefectural Art Exhibition Prize and the Encouragement Prize.