MORI TOSHIAKI Bizen Pottery Sake Cup - Autumn Moon / 備前焼 酒カップ

Bizen Pottery, shaped over a span of more than 1,000 years, originates from the village of Bizen in Japan, renowned for its lineage of dedicated artisans. Collaborating with these skilled craftsmen, we proudly present our inaugural collection of Bizen ware created by young, high-profile, and promising artists. Their expertise harmoniously blends the rich traditions of Bizen Pottery with contemporary influences, resulting in exquisite pieces of art. Rooted in the essence of wabi-sabi, each piece celebrates nature's simplicity and asymmetry. Crafted with pure clay and fired for weeks at low temperatures, Bizen Pottery boasts both natural beauty and exceptional durability. Each Bizen artist's journey intertwines deeply with their heritage as they continuously challenge and refine their aesthetic expression. The distinctive clay used and the firing process, fueled by the power of natural fire, contribute to the captivating patterns and colours that make Bizen Pottery truly exceptional.

Mori Toshiaki comes from the direct lineage of one of the historic Bizen Rokusei (“Six Families of Bizen”), the kiln families officially entrusted with Bizen ware production by the Okayama domain. He carries on this centuries-old heritage through Hozangama, a kiln whose history can be traced back to the late Muromachi period. After university, where he studied the preservation and restoration of cultural properties, Mori trained at the Bizen Ceramics Center before establishing himself as a ceramic artist. Working primarily on the potter’s wheel, he creates tableware, sake vessels and flower vessels with strong, considered forms while allowing the natural character of Bizen clay and wood firing to remain at the heart of each piece. His work balances respect for tradition with a contemporary sensibility, guided by playfulness, usability and consideration for the people who will ultimately live with and enjoy his pieces.

Adding to its handmade character, the cup features a gently rounded base that allows it to subtly wobble when touched. Rather than sitting completely still, this playful movement brings a sense of life and individuality to the piece, making each interaction with it part of its unique charm.

As each piece is handmade, slight variations in size, glaze, colour and texture may occur, reflecting the unique character of artisan-made ceramics.

◾ Handmade in Japan

◾ What's included? - One (1) Sake Cup in a Box.

◾ Material: Pottery

◾ Size: Diameter 5.4 cm x Height 5.1 cm

◾ Comfortable capacity: 80 ml (Full capacity: 110 ml)

◾ NOT Suitable for Microwave OR Dishwasher

◾ Comes with a box. Great as a gift.