Bizen ware horseback cup

This is a Bizen *bajohai* (tall sake cup) by Kei Fujiwara, a master beloved by all for a warm style that radiated both boldness and kindness. The large form, which is unmistakably his, displays a dynamic quality fitting for a master well-known for his love of drink. Likely a piece from his later years after moving to his son Yu's kiln, it shows the distinct character of that period, particularly the soft, moss-green *kase-goma* (stony sesame glaze) that is a hallmark of the Fujiwara school. It also features a gentle *hi-iro* (scarlet fire-color) so prized in sake vessels, along with deeply evocative *botamochi* (circular fire-mark) markings on the front and inside. In a signed wooden box (with *shiho-san* joints)
Diameter 7.3cm × Diameter 7.1cm × Height 9.0cm Kei Fujiwara (1899–1983, born in Bizen, Okayama Prefecture) entered the world of Bizen ware at the suggestion of Atsuo Masamune, a scholar of Japanese literature living in Honami, Bizen. He learned wheel-throwing techniques from Baikado Mimura, and from 1941, he further refined his craft under the guidance of fellow Living National Treasure Toyo Kaneshige, from whom he learned firing methods. Emulating the simplicity and boldness found in the everyday wares of the Kamakura and Muromachi periods, he created jars and vases with a generous and clear-cut style. The artistic education he absorbed in his youth greatly influenced his work. In 1954, he became the second person to be designated a Holder of Important Intangible Cultural Property (Living National Treasure) for Bizen ware, and in 1958, he became a director of the Japan Kōgei Association. In 1977, he established the Kei Fujiwara Memorial Museum in Bizen, Okayama.
Major awards include the Okayama Prefecture Cultural Award, Sanyo Shimbun Prize, Chugoku Cultural Award, Honorary Citizen of Bizen City, Honorary Citizen of Okayama Prefecture, and posthumously, the Order of the Sacred Treasure, Gold Rays with Neck Ribbon, and Junior Fifth Rank.