Sake cup (guinomi) c. early 21th century

This sake cup, or guinomi, was made by Takiguchi Kiheiji. Imagine the artist's hands shaping the clay, coaxing it into this simple yet elegant form. The creamy white glaze, like a soft, worn canvas, is punctuated by these spontaneous brushstrokes. They look like the artist has been guided by intuition, each mark carrying a sense of movement and energy. It reminds me of a painter’s gesture, decisive and free. The glaze is thin in places, revealing the earthy tones of the clay beneath, creating a beautiful contrast of texture and color. The surface has little freckles, and it looks like the piece was born of a collaboration between artist and kiln! It feels like the artist and I are in conversation, and I love that sense of connection. These vessels are like silent witnesses to countless shared moments and quiet contemplations.