silver ochoko by Yasushi Fujihira

Width 8.5cm x 8.5cm Height 4.5cm

The "Sake Cup" by Yasushi Fujihira is a work characterized by the cold, shining luster of silver. Its beauty is mysterious, like a full moon floating in the winter night sky, and gives off an impression of tranquility. The refined form and the shadows created by the reflection of light capture the hearts of those who see it and sharpen the senses of those who touch it.

A silver glow reminiscent of the moon in the winter night sky

The silver finish that covers the entire sake cup gives it a cool and quiet feel.
The deep luster reflects light in complex ways, revealing a different expression from every angle. This ever-changing glow gives the cup a sense of dynamism, as if it were alive. When amber-colored sake is poured into the cup, the silver sheen reflects the liquid, creating a fantastical beauty that makes it appear as if it were clad in a golden glow. Simply pouring sake into the cup further enhances the charm of the piece, evoking deep emotions in the heart.

Smooth curves and delicate craftsmanship

The shape of the sake cup has been carefully shaped with smooth curves to fit naturally in the palm of your hand. When you hold it in your hand, its pleasant coolness stimulates your senses. When you bring it to your mouth, the cool sensation of the silver gives your lips a fresh surprise, offering a special experience that awakens your senses. The way the sake flows along the rim is reminiscent of the sparkle of a jewel, showcasing the transparency and exquisite reflection that only a silver sake cup can offer. This fleeting beauty demonstrates that the sake cup is a work of art that transcends functionality.

Dynamic expressions created by light and shadow

This sake cup creates different shadows every time it catches the light, changing its impression depending on the time of day and the environment. This is an exquisite effect created by the properties of silver as a material and the outstanding skill of Fujihira Yasushi. This dynamic expression, which makes the cup appear to be moving depending on the light, is never boring to the viewer.

The beauty of silver deepens with the passage of time

As time passes, silver sake cups acquire a natural texture from the user's hand, further enhancing their appeal. The color changes due to silver's unique oxidation and the shine of the polished parts create a unique presence that seems to carve out a history together with the user. Fujihira Yasushi's sake cups possess a beauty that grows as vessels that reflect the owner's life. The beauty of the cool, shining silver, the smooth shape, and the rich expressions created by light and shadows captivate those who see and touch them. The moment sake is poured, the contrast with the luster of the silver creates a visual sensation, transforming the act of drinking itself into a special experience.

This sake cup, which is both practical and outstanding as a work of art, brings special moments into everyday life and is a one-of-a-kind item that will weave history together with its user. By holding this sake cup, you can feel the respect for nature that Yasushi Fujihira has instilled in it and the essence of the craftsmanship that brings out the beauty of the material.

≪Nei Fujihira Ceramics History≫
1963 Born in Kyoto Prefecture. Father: Shin Fujihira
1988 Graduated from Kyoto Prefectural Pottery Vocational Training School. Selected for the Nitten Exhibition (2 times thereafter).
1989 Akane Award at Kyoto Exhibition (1990 Mayor's Award) Selected for the Japan Ceramic Art Exhibition
1990 Selected for the Contemporary Asahi Craft Exhibition (four times since)
1991 Ceramics Biennale Encouragement Award, All Kansai Art Exhibition Honorable Mention ('92 same award)
1992 Selected for the Kyoto Craft Biennale Selected for the Asahi Ceramic Art Exhibition
1993 All Kansai Art Exhibition, Kansai Award, 2nd Place
2008 Submitted to the Paramita Ceramic Art Grand Prize Exhibition

A conversation with Mr. Yasushi Fujihira