Ash-glazed sake cup

This is an ash-glazed sake cup by Iwao Kaneshige, an artist who was born and raised in the prestigious Kaneshige family lineage, diligently honing his craft at the kiln where the great Toyo Kaneshige and Michiaki Kaneshige fired their works for generations. Reflecting Iwao-sensei’s broad expertise that extends beyond Bizen ware to include glazed ceramics, this is an authentic ash-glazed sake cup featuring an intriguing contrast between the red clay and the gray ash glaze. The overall appearance is reminiscent of Karatsu ware, with the interior showing "kairagi" (plum blossom-like) glaze crawling, and the foot featuring a "tsuchimise" (exposed clay) finish with fine crepe-like wrinkles. Its slightly small and understated nature is typical of Iwao-sensei’s delicate sensibilities. Signed wooden box (shiho-san style)
Diameter 7.1cm × Diameter 7.0cm × Height 2.7cm Iwao Kaneshige is the eldest son of Michiaki Kaneshige. Born and raised in a family of Bizen potters, his own love for ceramics led him to pursue the path of a potter. After refining his techniques under the guidance of the Kaneshige family, he became independent in 1995 and held his first solo exhibition at a gallery in Okayama. He participated in the Kaneshige family exhibitions in 1999 and 2001.