{"product_id":"p6907","title":"Bizen Sake Cup","description":"This is a newly fired Bizen sake cup (guinomi) by Masashiro Aiga, an artist who creates works that are uncompromisingly direct and full of character.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cbr\u003e\nOnly an artist like Mr. Aiga, who specializes in the firing process among the many Bizen ceramicists, could express the unique earth tones and kiln-fired textures that can only be achieved through exhaustive firing.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cbr\u003e\nIt is rare to see a work that so perfectly embodies the phrase \"cost is no object\" at first glance; it is one of only three finished pieces from a kiln firing in April 2023, selected after being fired repeatedly until reaching the artist’s own exacting standards.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cbr\u003e\nBy making extensive use of clay slips and layered firing, the work features a complex combination of varying earthy hues and kiln transformations, creating a remarkable surface that is both \"damp yet dry,\" reminiscent of old Bizen ware.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cbr\u003e\nWhile Bizen clay typically hardens and loses its color the more it is fired, the exterior of this piece possesses an exquisite, slightly wet luster, along with a \"yuzu-hada\" (citron skin) texture that is intriguingly reminiscent of glazed pottery.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cbr\u003e\nIn terms of form, it features the very large tea-bowl style characteristic of Mr. Aiga’s work. Rather than having a loose, flared shape, it stands with a very dignified posture, making it a piece that invites you to put aside your worries and enjoy your sake in a bold, spirited way.\n\nSigned wooden box to be provided later (Please note that it will take some time before the item can be shipped).\u003cbr\u003e\nDiameter 8.0cm x 7.3cm x Height 6.3cm\n\nMasashiro Aiga was born in Hiroshima Prefecture in 1972.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cbr\u003e\nHe graduated from the Okayama Prefectural Bizen Ceramic Center in 1997.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cbr\u003e\nIn 2003, he built a fully underground anagama kiln in Samukaze.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cbr\u003e\nThe following year, he built a second semi-underground anagama kiln, where he continues to devote himself to his craft.","brand":"相賀真志郎","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46618069205089,"sku":"6907","price":16500.0,"currency_code":"JPY","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0654\/9916\/8865\/files\/6907.jpg?v=1790231989","url":"https:\/\/tourakuen.myshopify.com\/en\/products\/p6907","provider":"川口陶楽苑","version":"1.0","type":"link"}