Bizen ware sake cup

This is a Bizen sake cup by Living National Treasure Toshu Yamamoto, an artist renowned for his unparalleled, masterful technique and the creation of numerous masterpieces. This piece dates from the final years of Toshu Yamamoto's life; it possesses a balance that is neither too light nor too heavy, ensuring that while it does not feel burdensome, it retains a distinct sense of presence in the palm of one’s hand. The most striking feature of this work is, without question, the gold coloration—a brilliant clay surface born from the intense reduction firing typical of Toshu's kiln, which was known for producing such gilded effects. The interior and the foot, in particular, display fascinating shifts in the clay's character; the interior features a marbled texture reminiscent of the nacre of a seashell, while the foot takes on a bluish, platinum-like hue, offering a dizzying, profound beauty that lingers even after the cup is drained. Signed wooden box (shiho-san style)
Diameter 6.6cm x Diameter 6.5cm x Height 5.6cm Toshu Yamamoto (1906–1994, born in Ibe, Bizen City) entered the world of ceramics in 1921 and established his own kiln in 1933. He later refined his skills under Kyoto-based potter Yaichi Kusube. After the war, he deepened his friendships with figures such as Rosanjin Kitaoji and Isamu Noguchi. Known as "Toshu of the Potter's Wheel," he was celebrated for his exceptional wheel-throwing technique and delicate works, actively engaging in the production of tea ceramics—particularly tea canisters (cha-ire)—and establishing a reputation as a master craftsman of tea wares. In 1987, he was designated a Holder of Important Intangible Cultural Property (Living National Treasure). In 1992, he held the exhibition "Journey of the Six Old Kilns: Living National Treasure Toshu Yamamoto."
Major Awards: Okayama Prefecture Cultural Award, Miki Memorial Award, Sanyo Shimbun Award, Chugoku Cultural 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, Honorary Citizen of Bizen City