Imbe Guinomi

This sake cup by Shusaku Kaneshige of Toko-bo Yu is crafted using exceptionally high-quality Bizen clay—so fine that the artists themselves once confessed they “couldn't bear to use it” in the studio’s early days.
It is a truly luxurious piece.
The work was fired in a Tsuchigama, a primitive, unlined earth kiln that does not use refractory bricks.
As a result, the surface has a naturally worn, rounded character, giving the impression of an object that has been lovingly used for many years, despite being brand new.
Fired in the midsection of the Tsuchigama, the piece resembles the ash-covered finishes typically seen in traditional Noborigama (climbing kilns).
However, it boasts a distinctive expression that can only be achieved by firing fine-quality Tsuchi (clay) in such a kiln:
a glossy, wet-like ash glaze, intense scarlet hues that penetrate to the core, and a depth of character unique to this method.

About Toko-bo Yu

Toko-bo Yu was established in 2011 by three former apprentices of Yuho Kaneshige, a distinguished Bizen ware artist.

The studio’s current members are:

Shusaku Kaneshige (born 1978)

Yousaku Kaneshige (born 1980)