Bizen Guinomi

This Bizen sake cup is by Takashi Soga, an artist who challenges the beauty of antiquity by recreating the same firing conditions used for Old Bizen ware. To reproduce the style of the Old Bizen period, he avoids the use of firebricks and other modern materials, firing his work in a kiln where modern common sense regarding thermal efficiency does not apply; consequently, the cup displays a superlative "tsuchiaji" (taste of the clay) that transcends contemporary aesthetics to rival that of Old Bizen. Its well-fired, brownish body is adorned with understated "hidasuki" (fire-cord) markings. While at first glance it may appear plain and unassuming, the surface reveals a powerful, earthy vitality that seems to explode with the life force of the clay, a hallmark of Soga-sensei’s deep reverence for Old Bizen. Fine black iron particles are scattered throughout the body, and in contrast to its intense visual appearance, the texture is remarkably soft and delicate, creating a magnificent finish that highlights the quality of the clay. Despite its profound, imposing presence, the sake cup is crafted to be lightweight and comfortable to hold. Signed wooden box (shiho-san)
Diameter 6.6cm x 6.5cm x Height 5.8cm Takashi Soga was born in Tokyo in 1984. He apprenticed under Jun Isezaki in 2009 and built his own kiln in Kuku-i, Bizen City, in 2012. He became independent in 2013 and began his career as a ceramic artist.