Polychrome Bizen ware sake cup

This is a new colored Bizen sake cup by Anjin Abe, an artist who possesses deep insight and an aesthetic sensibility regarding ancient pottery, and who creates one-of-a-kind works through his own unique research and firing methods. The piece features a large, intricately carved flower painted in white and blue. The delicate shades of white and blue are complemented by the powerful gold paint, with both elements bringing out the best in each other. The landscape of the piece changes brilliantly depending on the viewing angle, with yellow sesame-like ash glaze (yellow goma) on the back and reddish tones on the sides. Signed wooden box to follow (please allow some time for shipping).
Diameter 6.2cm x Diameter 5.5cm x Height 5.8cm Anjin Abe was originally a Western-style painter. He began collecting pottery as a hobby, but finding contemporary Bizen ware unsatisfactory, he started creating his own pottery in 1972 to produce pieces that truly met his standards. He frequently creates water jars (mizusashi), flower vases, flat bottles, bowls, sake bottles (tokkuri), and sake cups. All are wheel-thrown and finished with a spatula. His approach to pottery is rooted in the ancient Bizen ware of the Momoyama period, and he is deeply committed to the firing process. He is also involved in diverse forms of artistic expression, presenting mixed-media works that combine various materials and techniques, including ceramics, lacquer, oil painting, and bronze. He holds solo exhibitions energetically both in Japan and abroad, including in Tokyo, Osaka, New York, and Paris.