Blue Bizen Beer Mug

This Aobizen (blue Bizen) beer tumbler is the work of Mitsuhiro Uragami, who carries on the magnificent ceramic techniques passed down from his father-in-law, the late Intangible Cultural Property holder Zenji Uragami. It brilliantly inherits the unique Aobizen style—the calm, gray base body and black *tasuki* (sash) markings that Zenji Uragami was known for. The clay surface, fired under strong reduction, and the black *tasuki* create a rich, variegated depth of color, resulting in a monochrome aesthetic brimming with the evocative charm typical of stoneware. This ensures that even with such a chic appearance, the piece does not feel overly cold, retaining the essential "comfort" of pottery when held in the hand or touched to the lips. Although this is a relatively tall beer tumbler, it is thinly potted and wheel-thrown with an even distribution of clay, making it lightweight and easy to hold. Beyond its use as a beer glass, it can be freely used as a teacup or multi-purpose vessel. It comes in a paulownia box, making it an ideal gift. Signed wooden box (double-slat lid)
Diameter 8.7cm × Diameter 8.5cm × Height 9.7cm Mitsuhiro Uragami began studying under his father-in-law, Zenji Uragami, in 1973, learning the fundamentals of pottery, from clay preparation to kiln loading and firing. He established his own independent studio in 1975. He studies the Urasenke school of tea ceremony and frequently creates tea utensils. Influenced by Zenji's mentorship, he has also challenged himself to create intricate ceramic sculptures. He received the Sanyo Shimbun Award at the Prefectural Exhibition in 1984 and 1986. He has also received awards at the Zento Exhibition, the Chanoyu Molding Exhibition, and the Yakishime Pottery Open Exhibition, among others. He has also held joint father-son exhibitions in Hiroshima and Okayama.