Sake cup (guinomi) c. early 21th century

This small, ceramic Sake cup, or guinomi, was crafted by Okamoto Sakurei, a Japanese potter born in 1958. The cup, with its simple, yet elegant form, showcases Sakurei's mastery of traditional Japanese pottery techniques. Its subtle glaze and the slight variations in its surface reflect the artist's dedication to the craft. The cup's modest size speaks to the intimate and ritualistic nature of sake drinking in Japanese culture. Currently housed at the Minneapolis Institute of Art, this piece embodies the beauty and functionality of traditional Japanese ceramics.