Bizen Guinomi

This is an exquisite Bizen sake cup by Fujiwara Kazu, born to a Living National Treasure grandfather and father, who pursues a unique aesthetic while upholding the basic principles of simplicity, clarity, and boldness. It features a spectacular kiln-altered finish that serves as a textbook example of "kase-goma" (matte sesame glaze), with a vibrant scarlet hue and fine-grained texture that seem to beg to be filled with sake. In addition to the "botamochi" markings on the front and interior—the hallmark of Fujiwara Bizen passed down from his father, Yu—it also features an extra scarlet "nuke" (clear patch) on the side, with all of these elements displaying a magnificent, brilliant scarlet like that of a ripe persimmon, making the piece truly luxurious. The cup is quite wide and of a decent depth, allowing for a generous pour, though the sheer beauty of the scarlet interior when wet may lead you to drink a little too much. Signed wooden box (shiho-san style)
Diameter 8.7cm x Diameter 8.5cm x Height 5.5cm Fujiwara Kazu is the eldest son of Living National Treasure Fujiwara Yu, and his grandfather was Living National Treasure Fujiwara Kei. He began his pottery career in 1980 under the guidance of his grandfather and father. He became independent in 1988 and fired his first kiln in 1990. He primarily produces vases and tableware, known for the graceful, expansive quality of his work. He has held solo exhibitions in cities such as Okayama, Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka. In 1994, he held the "Three Generations of Fujiwara Bizen Exhibition." In 2002, he received the Japan Academy of Arts Achievement Award. In 2004, he was appointed as an advisor to the Urasenke Tankokai Chugoku Branch. In 2006, he became the chairman of the Toshinkai association.