Inbe Guinomi

This is a new Ibe sake cup created in the new kiln of Arihiko Kaneshige, an artist who, despite belonging to the Kaneshige lineage, constantly questions himself, creating works as the potter "Arihiko" rather than "Arihiko Kaneshige." It was fired in a newly designed "tsuchigama" (earth kiln)—an anagama kiln made entirely of clay without the use of firebricks—representing a fusion of Kaneshige’s firing techniques with this unique kiln. This piece was retrieved from near the side-firing port of the new kiln; as this area accumulates embers just like a climbing kiln, the finish resembles the *yohen* (kiln transformation) of a climbing kiln. Yet, it exhibits a landscape that feels like a hybrid between an anagama and a climbing kiln, retaining a rich, vivid scarlet color even after a thorough firing, with exceptional character on the front, interior, and foot that promises to develop a beautiful patina through use. While Arihiko-sensei’s wheel-throwing has traditionally been tight and restrained, as if gathering energy, this piece is large and relaxed, as if he is breaking into a new frontier. Signed wooden box (shiho-san) included
Diameter: 7.8cm × 7.0cm × Height: 4.8cm Arihiko Kaneshige was born as the third son of Intangible Cultural Property holder Sozan Kaneshige. He began studying pottery techniques under his father, Sozan, in 1975. He went independent in 1980, holding his first solo exhibition in Okayama. He primarily creates tea ceramics such as tea bowls, water jars, and flower vases, as well as tableware. For his tea bowls, a form he is particularly fond of, he emphasizes the interior shaping (mikomi) while pursuing a balance with the exterior. He has received the Sanyo Shimbun Prize at the Prefectural Exhibition, the Encouragement Award at the Exhibition of Tea Ceremony Modeling, and the Encouragement Award at the Tanko Biennale. He received the Japan Ceramic Society Award in 2003. He is also dedicated to solo exhibitions, which are held in various locations.