Ibe Shuten

This is an Ibe sake cup by Michiaki Kaneshige, who was born as the eldest son of the master Toyo Kaneshige and captivated everyone with a style that infused unique sensibilities into tradition. It features a characteristic flavor typical of Michiaki, combining a crisp, yellow sesame glaze with a bright brown earthen texture. It is on the larger side for his sake cups, and coupled with the refreshing quality of the yellow sesame glaze, it leaves a vibrant and spirited impression. The carving of the foot and the subtle undulations of the rim reflect both the ceramic techniques inherited from his father, Toyo Kaneshige, and his own earnest personality, resulting in a magnificent style that is intentional yet entirely unpretentious. While it may lack the dramatic scenery of bold sesame markings or distinct clay textures, the harmony of the clay, firing, and form is wonderful; it is a cup that touches the heart precisely because of its understated nature. Signed wooden box (shiho-san)
Diameter 7.0cm x Diameter 6.9cm x Height 6.0cm Michiaki Kaneshige (1934–1977) was born in Inbe as the eldest son of the Living National Treasure, Toyo Kaneshige. He graduated from the Kanazawa College of Art, Department of Crafts, in 1955. He studied under his father, Toyo, to become a ceramic artist. From 1957, he was selected for the Asahi Contemporary Ceramic Art Exhibition for three consecutive years. He was also selected for the Nitten exhibition, and in 1960, he toured various parts of the United States for ceramic research. In 1969, he became a regular member of the Japan Kōgei Association and received the Kaneshige Toyo Award in 1970. He was appointed as a member of the Issuikai Ceramic Arts Division in 1973, received the Japan Ceramic Society Award in 1980, and was officially designated as an Okayama Prefecture Important Intangible Cultural Property in 1990. He specialized in tea ceramics and also created works with geometric forms, such as bowls. His work was also exhibited in overseas exhibitions.