{"product_id":"p5102","title":"Bizen ware teacup","description":"This is a Bizen tea cup by Living National Treasure Toshu Yamamoto, a master who created numerous masterpieces with peerless, god-like technical skill. Formed using exceptional wheel-throwing techniques and fired under rigorous temperature control, the cup features a form that is both thin and supple, yet possesses a dignified presence. The rim, in particular, is thrown so thin that it is startling to think a human could achieve such delicacy with clay. Despite its thin, refined form, it does not feel overly light; by adding a degree of thickness to areas other than the rim, the artist has ensured optimal heat retention and stability. The strongly white-toned clay, a signature of Yamamoto, conveys a sense of pristine cleanliness, beautifully accented by vibrant *hidasuki* (fire-cord) markings that create a stunning landscape. These vivid markings produce beautiful gradations that one could gaze upon forever without tiring.\n\nOriginal signed wooden box (shiho-san) \u003cbr\u003e\nDiameter 7.6cm × Diameter 7.6cm × Height 8.0cm\n\nToshu Yamamoto (1906–1994, born in Imbe, Bizen City) entered the world of pottery in 1921 and established his own kiln in 1933. He later refined his skills under the guidance of Kyoto ceramic artist Yaichi Kusube. After the war, he deepened his friendships with figures such as Rosanjin Kitaoji and Isamu Noguchi. Known as \"Toshu of the Wheel\" for his superior throwing technique, he created delicate works and passionately pursued the production of tea ceramics, primarily tea caddies (*cha-ire*), establishing his reputation as a master of tea ware. He had a particular affinity for tea caddies and produced many throughout his career. In 1987, he was designated a Holder of Important Intangible Cultural Property. In 1992, the exhibition \"Journey through the Six Ancient Kilns: Living National Treasure Toshu Yamamoto\" was held. \u003cbr\u003e\nMajor awards and honors include: Okayama Prefecture Cultural Award, Miki Memorial Award, Sanyo Shimbun Award, Chugoku Cultural Award, Mainichi Art Award, Bizen City Distinguished Service Award, Medal with Purple Ribbon, Medal with Dark Blue Ribbon, Order of the Sacred Treasure, 4th Class, and Honorary Citizen of Bizen City.","brand":"山本陶秀","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46618670039137,"sku":"5102","price":70000.0,"currency_code":"JPY","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0654\/9916\/8865\/files\/5102.jpg?v=1790239836","url":"https:\/\/tourakuen.myshopify.com\/en\/products\/p5102","provider":"川口陶楽苑","version":"1.0","type":"link"}