Ao Ido Hai

This is a Blue Ido sake cup by Yoshinobu Morimoto, an artist with an exceptional aesthetic sense who is constantly evolving in his approach to clay, firing, and craftsmanship. Reflecting the passion of Morimoto-sensei, who delves deeply into not only Bizen ware but also the study of Ido-style works, this piece possesses a dignity and seasoned character that rivals the classics. Created with the intention of translating the well-loved tactile quality of the Ido tea bowls cherished by ancient tea masters into a sake cup, its refined form—true to that of a tea bowl—features stunning crazing and "kairagi" (plum blossom glaze) that suggest it will age beautifully with use. The crimson spots of the "gohonde" (fire-coloration) complement the bluish Ido surface exceptionally well, offering a picturesque view reminiscent of scattered plum blossoms in bloom. Signed wooden box (shiho-san) included.
Diameter 8.7cm × 8.5cm × Height 5.0cm Yoshinobu Morimoto was born in Okayama Prefecture in 1976. He completed his studies at the Bizen Pottery Center in 1996. After working independently, he held his first solo exhibition in Tokyo in 2004. Since then, he has held annual solo exhibitions across Japan, primarily in Tokyo. He was selected for the "Chanoyu Modeling Exhibition" at the Tanabe Museum of Art in 2005, 2006, and 2007. In 2008, he participated in the "Contemporary Artists' Sake Vessels Exhibition" at Nihombashi Mitsukoshi, Tokyo. In 2009, he participated in the "Contemporary Artists' Tea Bowl Exhibition" at Nihombashi Mitsukoshi, Tokyo. In 2010, he held a solo exhibition, "Yoshinobu Morimoto Special Feature," at Tenmaya in Okayama, among other exhibitions nationwide.