Bizen Syuhai

This is a Bizen sake cup by Kei Fujiwara, an artist beloved by all for a warm, open-hearted, and generous style that exuded kindness. Created between his middle and later years, this masterpiece features a mugwort-colored clay body draped in rich, viscous scarlet *hidaski* (fire-cord) markings. The soft, thick *hidaski* contains a unique luster and streaks of fire, creating an ethereal, earthy aesthetic that captivates the viewer. The interior is also completely covered in these tasteful *hidaski* patterns, reflecting the artistic sensibility of a master who deeply loved sake. There are traces showing that the cup tipped over while still moist during the trimming of the foot; true to Fujiwara's bold, uncalculated sense of beauty, he chose to preserve this accidental deformation in the final firing, adding an intriguing character to the piece. Signed wooden box (double-slat)
Diameter 6.7cm x 6.1cm x Height 5.3cm Kei Fujiwara (1899–1983, born in Honami, Bizen City, Okayama Prefecture) entered the world of Bizen pottery at the recommendation of Atsuo Masamune, a scholar of Japanese literature living in Honami.
He received initial guidance on techniques such as wheel-throwing from Baikhei Mimura, and from 1941, he studied firing techniques under Toyo Kaneshige, the first Bizen potter to be designated a Living National Treasure, further honing his craft.
In his artistic production, he was inspired by the simplicity and boldness seen in古備前 (Old Bizen) from the Kamakura and Muromachi periods, establishing a style that was simple, clear, and generous, rather than overly reliant on technique.
Furthermore, the artistic sensibility he cultivated while aspiring to be a writer and poet in his youth also had a significant influence on his work.
In 1954, he was recognized as a holder of an Important Intangible Cultural Property of Okayama Prefecture, and in 1958, he became a director of the Japan Kōgei Association.
In 1970, he was designated as a holder of a nationally designated Important Intangible Cultural Property, known as a Living National Treasure.
In 1977, the Kei Fujiwara Memorial Museum opened in Bizen City, Okayama Prefecture.
He passed away in 1983.
Major awards and honors include the Okayama Prefecture Cultural Award, the Sanyo Shimbun Award, the Chugoku Cultural Award, Honorary Citizen of Bizen City, Honorary Citizen of Okayama Prefecture, the Junior Fifth Rank, and the Order of the Sacred Treasure, Third Class.