Sake cup, Ox design by Takahashi Dohachi

Width: 6.1cm Height: 4.5cm

This piece, featuring a gentle milky white glaze on which the "Ox" design is carved in soft curves and quietly rotates, is one of the "Twelve Zodiac Sake Cups" series by Takahashi Michihachi IX.
The spirit of the ox, which has since ancient times symbolized "sincerity, patience, and the power of the earth," is beautifully expressed through simple lines and gentle glaze tones.

1. Beauty of form - A soft yet dignified and refined appearance

The vessel is slightly bulging and bowl-shaped, with gentle lines that converge smoothly from the body to the base.
The base is set slightly higher, adding a sense of lightness and elegance to the overall form.
When you pick it up, you'll notice that it's thick and rounded, fitting comfortably in the palm of your hand, highlighting the "beauty of utility" inherent in the design of the Kudaisama.

2. Glaze Tone - Natural scenery that shines through the milky white glaze

The glaze is a slightly thick milky white, and the warmth of the slightly translucent clay gives the vessel depth.
Fine crazes appear on the surface, creating soft shadows depending on the angle of the light.
The fire marks from the firing process are slightly visible on the bottom, adding a rich look to the otherwise pure white color.

3. Design - The rhythm of the earth dwelling in the "Ushimon" design

The inscription around the bottom of the rim is an abstract design of the "ox" (ox) derived from ancient hieroglyphics.
The continuous, rounded lines create a gentle rhythm reminiscent of the leisurely gait of cows plowing the fields.
The Ox is the second of the twelve Chinese zodiac signs and symbolizes sincerity, patience, and steady growth.
This inscription expresses the undeniable power that resides in silence and the ancient wisdom of living in harmony with nature.

4. Technique: Harmony between engraved lines and glaze

The patterns are engraved one stroke at a time with an iron stylus while the clay is drying.
After glazing, the glaze seeps into the recesses of the engraved lines during firing, creating a "glazed relief" effect with gentle shadows when exposed to light.
The pattern is very understated, yet the delicate finish gives it a sense of depth that emerges every time you pick it up.

5. Historical and cultural background: The Ox symbolizes the "power of roots"

The zodiac sign of "ox" represents the middle of winter, the time when seeds gather strength underground.
Even though it may not be visible on the outside, its inner strength quietly lives on, waiting for the next spring - this very sight is a symbol of patience and sincerity.
The ninth generation Takahashi Dohachi expressed this spirituality not through flashiness but through "quiet design."
The lines, glaze, and shape all exude the "power of silence," making this a work truly suited to the Year of the Ox.

The ninth generation Takahashi Michihachi studied fashion design and then studied under the eighth generation, and succeeded to the name of the ninth generation in 2012.
While inheriting the techniques of traditional Kyoto ware, it has earned high praise for its modern sense of form and iconic design.

This work, "Ginomi Ox," features a tranquil beauty created by its gentle milky white glaze and soft engraved lines.
When you hold it in the palm of your hand, you will feel as if a quiet power is filling you up as time passes by.
This is a masterpiece that is worthy of being kept for a long time, whether as an everyday sake cup or as a vessel to celebrate seasonal changes.