Bizen Black Sake Cup

This black sake cup is the work of Masao Akitani, who studied under Living National Treasure Jun Isezaki and creates works full of unique originality while embracing a fresh spirit. This is the first new work from Masao Akitani in approximately two years since his last kiln opening. The smooth, highly lustrous black clay and the uniquely rounded form combine to create an endearing piece with an atmosphere reminiscent of an eggplant. Despite its cute, rounded shape, it is firmly fired, and you can enjoy the cobalt blue kiln transformation that is a hallmark of black works. He has used a hooked spatula to carve lines, and the way the sesame glaze flows along them creates a romantic scene like blue tears. While his style emphasizes form, the rim is well-finished, and despite being slightly large, it is a pleasure to find that it is straightforward and comfortable to use. Signed wooden box (double-crosspiece lid)
Diameter 7.2cm x Diameter 6.6cm x Height 6.0cm Masao Akitani was born in Saitama in 1968. He studied under Living National Treasure Jun Isezaki starting 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. His work has been selected for the Tanabe Museum of Art’s Tea Ceremony Modeling Exhibition and the Japan Kōgei Association Chugoku Branch Exhibition, and he has received awards including the Okayama Prefectural Art Exhibition Prize and the Encouragement Prize.