Bizen Sake Cup

This Bizen horse-riding sake cup (bajohai) is a timeless masterpiece by Ken Fujiwara, an artisan who combined boldness with precision. Fired inside a larger jar or bowl within the kiln, it features the rich, varied *hidasuki* (fire-cord) markings unique to such specialized firing. While the *hidasuki* itself is magnificent, the underlying clay body, inherited from the teachings of Toyo Kaneshige, possesses a soft, brownish hue that reflects the exceptional quality of the material. In the interior, the clay takes on a lighter tone, creating a delightful contrast with the *hidasuki* along the rim. With its slightly elevated and dynamic foot, a size perfect for one's nose to enter—the hallmark of an ideal sake cup—and a skillfully crafted rim, this piece may appear understated at first glance, but it is, in fact, a work of exceptional perfection. Signed wooden box (shiho-san)
Diameter 6.7cm × Diameter 6.7cm × Height 5.7cm Ken Fujiwara (1924–1977) began his pottery career in 1946 under his uncle, Kei Fujiwara, and also studied under Toyo Kaneshige and Sozan Kaneshige. He subsequently learned tableware production techniques from Rosanjin Kitaoji in Kamakura before establishing his own kiln in 1956. Thereafter, he was consecutively selected for various exhibitions. In 1970, he designed and built a large Bizen kiln using modern firebricks. In 1973, he was designated as a holder of an important intangible cultural property by the prefecture and was awarded the Order of the Sacred Treasure, Fifth Class. Though expected to become a leading figure for the next generation of Bizen potters, he passed away at the young age of 53.