Gold-leaf Sake Cup "Salamander" Black

This is the latest sake cup, "Salamander Black," fresh from the kiln by Toru Ichikawa, who studied under Ryuichi Kakizaki and made a sensational debut. It is a highly original and exceptional piece, characteristic of Ichikawa, who gives shape to his endless stream of ideas through clay, the ultimate medium. Staying true to the "Black" title, the boiling-like gold glaze expressed in the "Salamander" series has been replaced by a boiling black glaze, which, combined with a rich, dark crimson glaze, drastically transforms the atmosphere. The distinctive black glaze looks like lizard scales, true to the name "Salamander," possessing an alluring charm that feels more like leather than ceramic. Fine grains within the boiling gold are randomly changed to gold in several places, a detail that speaks to Ichikawa's intensity and meticulousness. The gold highlights further enhance the charm of the black glaze, resulting in a mysterious work that feels as if leather, goldsmithing, and pottery have fused into one. Signed box to follow (please allow some time for shipping).
Diameter 6.9cm x Diameter 6.3cm x Height 6.6cm Toru Ichikawa was born in Tokyo. He studied under Ryuichi Kakizaki from June 2011 and became independent in Tamano City, Okayama Prefecture, in January 2015.