Bizen Yunomi

This Bizen teacup is by Kei Fujiwara, an artist beloved by all for his bold, open-hearted style that radiated warmth. Works by Fujiwara are extremely rare, as he produced very few teacups. With its thick, robust form, this piece is closer in size to a cylindrical tea bowl than a standard teacup, truly reflecting the bold and open character for which he was known. The *hidasuki* (fire-cord) markings, carefully fired in an anagama kiln, are deeply evocative, with a rich, viscous pattern draped over the subdued, brownish-red surface; as it is seasoned with tea, the colors will likely mature into an even more refined, weathered hue. While the piece possesses an exceptional sense of presence, it is completely free of pretension, exuding a gentle, tranquil atmosphere that makes you want to keep it by your side forever. (*Note: There are marks on the foot from its removal during firing.) Original signed wooden box (shiho-san)
Diameter 10.0cm x 9.2cm x Height 10.5cm Kei Fujiwara (1899–1983, born in Honami, Bizen City, Okayama Prefecture) entered the world of Bizen pottery at the suggestion of Atsuo Masamune, a scholar of Japanese literature who lived in Honami.

He received instruction in techniques such as wheel-throwing from Baikage Mimura, and from 1941, he studied firing methods and refined his ceramic skills under Toyo Kaneshige, the first Bizen pottery artist to be designated a Living National Treasure.

In his creative process, he admired the simplicity and boldness found in ancient Bizen ware from the Kamakura and Muromachi periods, establishing a clear, simple, and generous style that did not rely too heavily on technique.

Furthermore, the appreciation for art he cultivated while aspiring to be a writer and poet in his youth had a significant influence on his work.

In 1954, he was recognized as a holder of an Important Intangible Cultural Property of Okayama Prefecture, and in 1958, he became a director of the Japan Kōgei Association.

In 1970, he was designated a holder of an Important Intangible Cultural Property by the national government, commonly known as a Living National Treasure.

In 1977, the Kei Fujiwara Memorial Museum opened in Bizen City, Okayama Prefecture.

He passed away in 1983.

Major awards and honors: Okayama Prefecture Cultural Award, Sanyo Shimbun Award, Chugoku Cultural Award, Honorary Citizen of Bizen City, Honorary Resident of Okayama Prefecture, Junior Fifth Rank, Order of the Sacred Treasure, Gold Rays with Neck Ribbon, etc.