Inbe Guinomi

This is a new Ibe sake cup from a new kiln by Ariyuki Kaneshige, an artist who, despite being part of the Kaneshige lineage, constantly questions himself and creates works not as "Kaneshige Ariyuki," but as an individual potter named Ariyuki. This work is the result of a fusion between Kaneshige’s firing methods and his unique "Tsuchigama" (earth kiln)—a newly designed wood-firing kiln made entirely of clay without the use of firebricks. This piece was retrieved from near the side-firing opening of the new kiln; because this area, like a climbing kiln, easily accumulates embers, the piece features a finish reminiscent of a *yohen* (kiln transformation) seen in climbing kilns. However, it also displays a landscape that is a hybrid between an anagama and a climbing kiln; even after a thorough firing, a rich scarlet hue remains, and it boasts a wonderful appearance with promising signs of character development across its front, interior, and foot. Furthermore, the meticulous attention to detail is superb, resulting in a sake cup with an exquisite texture that maximizes the advantage of Bizen ware—that it can be "enjoyed through both viewing and usage"—in contrast to Western art, which tends to place greater emphasis on appreciation. Signed wooden box (shiho-san)
Diameter 6.1cm × 5.7cm × Height 4.6cm Ariyuki Kaneshige was born the third son of Intangible Cultural Property holder Sozan Kaneshige. He began studying ceramic techniques under his father in 1975. He became independent in 1980 and held his first solo exhibition in Okayama. He creates tableware, focusing primarily on tea ceramics such as tea bowls, water jars, and flower vases. With tea bowls, which he particularly enjoys, he places great importance on the interior structure (mikomi) while pursuing a balance on the exterior. He has received the Sanyo Shimbun Award at the Prefectural Exhibition, the Encouragement Award at the Exhibition of Tea Ceremony Forms, and the Tanko Biennale Encouragement Award. He received the Japan Ceramic Society Award in 2003. He is also dedicated to solo exhibitions, which are held in various locations.