Bizen ware teacup

This is a newly fired Bizen tea cup by Takashi Soga, who challenges the aesthetic of antiquity by recreating the same firing environment used to produce Ko-Bizen (Old Bizen). To replicate the style of the Ko-Bizen era, the kiln is constructed without the use of firebricks or modern conveniences; because of this, the heat efficiency inside the kiln defies all modern conventions. Consequently, the tea cup exhibits a superb earthiness that transcends modern aesthetics and approaches the quality of authentic Ko-Bizen. The brownish surface features understated *hidasuki* (fire-cord) markings; while it may appear plain and unassuming at first glance, the clay body possesses a powerful vitality, as if it were bursting forth, reflecting the style of Soga, who deeply respects the Ko-Bizen tradition. A particular characteristic of this recent firing is the iron content that has bubbled up like sweat across the entire surface of the clay. This is combined with an incredibly soft and delicate texture that belies its rugged appearance; it is a delight to be able to enjoy such a contrast in a piece that can be held in the hands. The appearance is somewhat reminiscent of the *hidasuki* works of the renowned master Ken Fujiwara.

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Diameter 7.4cm × 7.4cm × Height 9.3cm Takashi Soga was born in Tokyo in 1984. He apprenticed under Jun Isezaki in 2009 and built his own kiln in Kuku-i, Bizen City, in 2012. He began his independent pottery career in 2013.