Inbe Guinomi

This is a new Ibe sake cup from a new kiln by Ariyasu Kaneshige, an artist who, while belonging to the Kaneshige lineage, constantly questions himself, creating works not as "Kaneshige Ariyasu," but simply as the potter, Ariyasu. The piece was created using his newly designed "tsuchigama" (earth kiln)—an anagama kiln built entirely of earth without the use of firebricks—representing a fusion of the traditional Kaneshige firing technique with this unique kiln structure. It is a type of piece similar to those Ariyasu uses in his own daily life, featuring a complex mixture of a parched, orange-hued clay body and a rich, viscous shiso-purple color that seems alive despite the firing process. Through a firing technique that maximizes the inherent qualities of the clay, the surface achieves a finely textured matte finish despite the presence of viscous, clay-like areas, successfully recreating the unique texture of antique Bizen ware. According to Ariyasu, who uses pieces of this type for tea and coffee, he has used the finest clay possible, and the elegant, refined surface will develop a deeper, more withered character over time. While Ariyasu’s work has often been characterized by taut, controlled wheel-throwing that seems to store up energy, these new pieces feature a more generous, relaxed form, as if he is carving out a new horizon. Signed wooden box (shihozan) included.
Diameter 8.3cm x 7.3cm x Height 5.2cm Ariyasu Kaneshige was born the third son of Intangible Cultural Property holder Sozan Kaneshige. He began learning pottery techniques under his father in 1975. He became independent in 1980, holding his first solo exhibition in Okayama. He creates tableware with a focus on tea ceramics such as tea bowls, water jars, and flower vases. With tea bowls, which he particularly enjoys, he places emphasis on the internal structure (mikomi) while pursuing a balance with the exterior. He has received the Sanyo Shimbun Award at the Okayama Prefectural Exhibition, the Encouragement Award at the Exhibition of Tea Ceremony Ceramics, and the Tanko Biennale Encouragement Award. He received the Japan Ceramic Society Award in 2003 and the Sanyo Shimbun Cultural Merit Award in 2018. He is also dedicated to his solo exhibitions, which are held at various venues. In 2019, he was designated as an Okayama Prefectural Important Intangible Cultural Property holder.