Sake Cup - Kinran Tenmoku by Yoshinori Izumi

Unceasing pursuit of glazes

Yoshinori Izumi, who has his studio in the satoyama (foothills) of Keihoku, Kyoto, has been researching glazes for over 50 years.

Building on the knowledge he gained at the Kyoto Municipal Industrial Research Institute, he has meticulously examined changes caused by firing temperature, glaze composition, and the way flames hit the ceramics, and has pursued his unique expression of kiln variations.

Izumi's work is not merely dependent on chance but is built upon years of accumulated data and experience.

Nevertheless, unpredictable changes occur in the kiln, and no two pieces turn out exactly the same.

Beautiful colors created by fire

Izumi's Tenmoku and celadon works display complex color changes created during firing.

The deep gradations created by the flowing glaze and the delicate kiln variations caused by mineral reactions create an appearance akin to natural phenomena.

Utensils for daily life

Izumi's works, while possessing high artistic merit, are carefully crafted with daily use in mind.

Based on his many years of experience creating a wide range of vessels, including sake cups, teacups, and matcha bowls, meticulous attention is paid to the feel of the rim, ease of holding, and overall comfort of use.

While maintaining a quiet presence, these vessels enhance the food and drinks they hold. They are pieces that allow you to enjoy the changing expressions of the glaze and light with each use.

For a special gift

The works are delivered in a wooden box personally signed by the artist.

The scenery created by kiln variations is unique to each piece, with each having its own one-of-a-kind expression.

Izumi's works, born from his long-standing dedication to glazes, are also recommended as special gifts.

These are impressive vessels that become more cherished with continued use.

Shop owner's comment

This sake cup features a beautiful gradient that transitions from red to gold within the jet black of the Tenmoku glaze.

The expression changes depending on how the light hits it and the viewing angle, allowing you to enjoy a profound scene.

Another charm of this work is the unique expression created by the firing process for each individual piece.

It comes in a wooden box personally signed by the artist, making it an excellent gift.