Bizen Sake Cup

This is an exquisite Bizen sake cup by the late Rokuro Nakamura, a master craftsman of traditional Bizen ware celebrated as a god of sake vessel creation. A masterpiece from his later years, between the ages of 70 and 80, it bears a superior kiln-effect (yohen) finish that is truly unparalleled. The rich, dense firing has resulted in an ink-like black finish, showcasing the full allure of one of the highest-rated aesthetic styles in Bizen ware. The striking, clearly defined *kumadori* (shading) reveals an exceptional clay body that retains a faint scarlet hue; paired with the ink-black kiln effects, the changes that will emerge through continued use will draw the beholder deep into the "Rokuro World." The interior basin perfectly balances the ink-black kiln effects with the superb quality of the clay; the rich, ash-covered kiln-effect gradually fades, allowing the scarlet color to emerge like light streaming into a darkened room. The robust, powerful construction makes for a delightful sake cup, reflecting the pride of Master Rokuro—a renowned drinker who famously stated, "If a sake cup isn't large enough to fit your nose in, it just won't do." Original signed wooden box (shiho-san style)
Diameter 7.1cm × Diameter 7.1cm × Height 5.7cm Master Rokuro Nakamura worked as a company employee until the end of the war, when he began his apprenticeship under Living National Treasure Toyo Kaneshige in 1945 to hone his skills, eventually establishing the Rokuro Kiln and becoming independent in 1961. On the potter's wheel, he favored creating sake vessels such as tokkuri, while also working on *tatara*-molded creations such as *awabin* (bubble bottles), kyusu teapots, and tea bowls. His style was rustic and brimming with raw vitality; as a maker of *yakishime* (unglazed high-fired) ceramics, he placed great importance on the firing process and devoted immense effort to the kiln-loading process, which determines the quality of the work. He was designated a Master of Traditional Crafts in 1986, the same year he received the Okayama Nichinichi Shimbun Prize, and in 1989, he was awarded the Order of the Blue Paulownia Leaves in the Spring Decorations. He passed away in April 2004.