Bizen tea cup

This is a Bizen tea cup by Living National Treasure Toshu Yamamoto, an artisan who created many masterpieces using peerless, miraculous techniques. Toshu Yamamoto also achieved a unique level of mastery with *hidasuki* (fire-cord) patterns, famous for the remarkably light and vibrant crimson streaks that strike across the stark white clay surface. Formed with exceptional wheel-throwing skills and fired under strictly controlled temperatures, this tea cup boasts a thin, supple, and impressively dignified silhouette. The rim is tapered to a degree that is unparalleled, refined to such a fine edge that the vessel emanates a sense of sharpness. Signed wooden box (shiho-san)
Diameter 8.2cm x Diameter 8.2cm x Height 8.6cm Toshu Yamamoto (1906–1994, born in Inbe, Bizen City) entered the world of pottery in 1921 and established his own kiln in 1933. He later refined his skills under the guidance of Kyoto potter Yaichi Kusube. After the war, he deepened his friendships with artists such as Rosanjin Kitaoji and Isamu Noguchi. Known as "Toshu of the Wheel" for his superior throwing technique and delicate work, he established a reputation as a master of tea ceramics, working enthusiastically on tea utensils, with a particular fondness for *cha-ire* (tea caddies). In 1987, he was designated a holder of an Important Intangible Cultural Property. In 1992, he held the exhibition "Journey of the Six Old Kilns: Living National Treasure Toshu Yamamoto."
Major awards and honors: Okayama Prefecture Cultural Award, Miki Memorial Award, Sanyo Shimbun Award, Chugoku Culture Award, Mainichi Art Award, Bizen City Distinguished Service Award, Medal with Purple Ribbon, Medal with Dark Blue Ribbon, Order of the Sacred Treasure, 4th Class, and Honorary Citizen of Bizen City.