Kuro Guinomi

Masao Akiya studied under Jun Isezaki, the fifth Living National Treasure for Bizen ware, and creates works full of originality with a fresh, contemporary spirit.
This is a newly fired black Guinomi sake cup by Masao Akiya, fresh from the kiln.

It is one of his latest works, fired in February 2026.

Created using the Kuro-Bizen (black Bizen) technique inherited from his master, Jun Isezaki, this piece is particularly appealing for its black surface, which combines deep luster with a sense of warmth.

A special clay collected from areas near Osafune, close to Bizen City, is applied to the surface after being mixed with a small amount of cobalt, producing a stylish and richly nuanced black texture.

One of the most attractive features of his black works is the so-called “blue Yohen,” which appears when cobalt reacts with the natural ash glaze during firing.
This piece also displays a vivid blue Yohen on the front, creating a highly striking appearance.

Inside the cup and on the reverse, the glossy black surface is beautifully complemented by the Kigoma (yellow sesame) markings characteristic of Bizen ware, allowing the viewer to fully enjoy the contrast of black, blue, and yellow alongside the aforementioned blue Yohen.

Its distinctive form, reminiscent of a tea bowl reduced in scale, combined with its coloring, calls to mind a Raku tea bowl.
With its charming and endearing presence, it is a piece that becomes more captivating the more you use it.

Born in Saitama Prefecture in 1968.
Became a disciple of Jun Isezaki in 1998.
Built his own kiln in 2008 and became an independent ceramic artist.