Japanese Celadon and Blue Sakazuki Sake Cups by Tatsuji Yamanaka

Dimensions: 1-1/2”h x 3-3/4” dia.

This colorful, beautiful, and flat Sakazuki sake cup is wonderful and unique displaying a handsome, “one-off” creation affording a unique and expressive pair. The interior is variegated tones ranging from celadon to a wonderful pale blue on the inside and outside of the piece. The bowl is raised on a short foot to celebrate the piece. The pair was purchased in his studio on Yamanobe no Michi Road in Nara.

This unique piece possesses what is referred to as Yo no bi, (“beauty through use”), which is a term that is often heard in the Japanese Utsuwa world. Beautifully crafted Guinomi (sake cups), such as these two pieces come alive when liquid is placed within its boundaries. The piece is a wonderful example of ceramic art, not answering the yo no bi call until touched by a user's hand and spirit. The term Sakazuki is a ritual of exchanging sake cups to pledge friendship. The word itself refers to ceremonial cups used on special occasions. 

Condition: Excellent condition as produced by the artist, retaining the original craft/workmanship. There is no discoloration, chipping/cracking, surface wear, or structural damage.

 Biographical Information on this Artist:

• 1952 born in Tenri City, Nara Prefecture
• 1982 Selected for the 11th Kinki Traditional Kōgei Exhibition for the first time (selected consecutively from this year onward)
• 1985 Selected for the Asahi Ceramic Art Exhibition for the first time (selected 4 times from this year onward)
• 1987 Selected for the 34th Japan Traditional Kōgei Exhibition for the first time (selected 26 times from this year onward)
• 1989 Selected for the 10th Japan Ceramic Art Exhibition for the first time (selected 7 times from this year onward)
• 1993 Solo Exhibition at Osaka Takashimaya (every 2 years from this year onward)
  Becomes a full Member of the Japan Kōgei Association
• 2005 Solo Exhibition at Okayama Takashimaya (07, 09, 11, 13, 15, 17, 20)
• 2013 Solo Exhibition at JR Nagoya Takashimaya (16, 19)
• 2014 Evaluator at the 43rd Kinki Traditional Kōgei Exhibition
• 2020 Solo Exhibition at Nihombashi Takashimaya (Tokyo)